Egypt is making significant strides in empowering persons with disabilities, a message underscored by Minister of Social Solidarity, Dr. Maya Morsy, at the recent Global Disability Summit in Berlin. Leading the Egyptian delegation, Dr. Morsy delivered a powerful address highlighting the nation’s commitment to leveraging technology and enacting robust legal frameworks to foster inclusive environments.
Dr. Morsy emphasized that modern technology has become a pivotal element in constructing truly inclusive societies. This isn’t merely about assistive devices, she stated, but a strategic approach to social and economic integration, unlocking entrepreneurial opportunities and empowering individuals with disabilities to contribute fully to Egypt’s economy.
Her address further spotlighted the Egyptian Constitution and the Law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which together guarantee comprehensive rights aimed at achieving equality and complete societal integration. These legal foundations ensure a life of dignity and equal opportunities for citizens with disabilities, with core principles encompassing non-discrimination, social and economic rights (including access to education, healthcare, and employment), political rights, and dedicated protection for children with disabilities.
Egypt’s commitment extends to actively promoting the principle of accessibility, aiming to simplify daily life for persons with disabilities across the nation. This dedication is further evidenced by a series of impactful initiatives launched in recent years:
- The “Ta’heel” National Network for Disability Services: This comprehensive digital platform serves as a central hub for training, rehabilitation, and employment services, directly connecting beneficiaries with suitable job opportunities based on their qualifications and location.
- Over 1.5 Million Integrated Services Cards Issued: These cards facilitate access to a wide range of services and benefits designed to enhance the economic and social inclusion of persons with disabilities.
- Financial Inclusion Initiatives: Collaborating with the Central Bank of Egypt, these initiatives ensure accessibility through audio services for the visually impaired and sign language video materials for the hearing impaired, driven in partnership with civil society organizations.
- Digital Community Development Projects: Targeting remote and marginalized areas, these projects leverage technology for remote diagnostics, e-learning, and empowerment initiatives, including specific programs for women and persons with disabilities.
- The “Digital Decent Life” Initiative: Aiming to build an interactive and secure digital society, this initiative prepares rural communities for digital transformation projects, ultimately improving the quality of life across Egypt.
- Inclusive Education Programs: Pilot programs utilizing smart digital tools are being implemented in schools and universities, including platforms like “Etaqaddam” for literacy and numeracy, fostering integration through supportive technologies.
- The “Tadamon” Project: Establishing 32 units within Egyptian universities, this initiative provides vital support to students with disabilities, including sign language interpreters, monthly stipends for visually impaired students, assistive devices, and Braille printing facilities.
- Dedicated Funding Mechanisms: Egypt has established investment funds like “Ataa” and “Qaderoun bi Ikhtilaf,” underscoring the government’s commitment to allocating resources for disability inclusion.
Dr. Morsy also highlighted Egypt’s regional leadership, noting its presidency of the Executive Bureau of the Council of Arab Ministers of Social Affairs. The nation reiterated its full support for continued collaboration with Arab and international partners to promote the integration of disability rights into broader development goals.
In a poignant moment, Dr. Morsy addressed the devastating impact of wars and conflicts on persons with disabilities, particularly referencing the suffering in Gaza. She emphasized Egypt’s unwavering commitment to supporting war-injured individuals in Gaza, providing comprehensive medical and rehabilitative care, including prosthetics, assistive devices, and psychosocial support.
Concluding her address, Dr. Morsy reaffirmed Egypt’s steadfast position on the Palestinian issue, echoing President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s stance against the forced displacement of the Palestinian people.
Egypt’s proactive approach and tangible initiatives showcased at the Global Disability Summit position the nation as a significant player in advancing disability inclusion globally. The emphasis on technology, robust legal frameworks, and dedicated programs demonstrates a clear commitment to empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring their full participation in society, setting a commendable example for the region and the world.
