Sharjah marked a historic moment today as it welcomed the 18th World Congress 2025, themed “We Are Inclusion,” at the Expo Centre Sharjah. Hosted by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS), this event is the first of its kind to take place in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The congress brings together 152 distinguished speakers from 74 countries and 160 organisations, in an effort to advance global efforts toward the full inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the congress, emphasizing the Emirate’s dedication to humanitarian services. An inspiring visual presentation during the opening ceremony highlighted individuals from rehabilitation centres sharing their achievements in fields such as engineering, sports, and the arts, demonstrating the impact of inclusive policies and support systems.
Organised every four years by Inclusion International, the World Congress is a pivotal event for disability rights advocates, self-advocates, decision-makers, and organisations worldwide. The 2025 edition offers 59 dialogue sessions designed to foster discussions on integration, accessibility, independent living, and rights advocacy. The event enjoys strategic support from the Sharjah Government Media Bureau and multiple international partners, underscoring its global significance.
In her address, Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCHS, reaffirmed Sharjah’s commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. She highlighted key initiatives launched since 2009, particularly around self-advocacy, and stressed the importance of creating inclusive environments. “We believe that inclusion is not merely a target but a fundamental part of our values,” she said, underlining the city’s mission to uphold the dignity and rights of individuals with disabilities.
Sue Swenson, President of Inclusion International, praised Sharjah’s long-standing efforts to support people with disabilities, calling the Emirate a global model in the field. Hashem Taqi, President of Inclusion for the Middle East and North Africa, underscored the congress’s alignment with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, focusing on equality, independent living, and employment.
Guests of honour included Sheikh Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Paralympic Committee, and Prince Mired bin Raad bin Yazid Al Hashemi, President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Jordan. Both emphasised the role of sports and national initiatives in enhancing the inclusion and integration of people with disabilities, especially within the Arab world.
The congress stands as a unique platform to amplify the voices of self-advocates, families, and global organisations. Jamie Cook, Executive Director of Inclusion International, concluded by noting that the event aims to translate collective discussions into actionable outcomes that promote a more equitable and inclusive world.
Following the opening, H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah toured the exhibition pavilions and workshop areas, engaging with participants from government and private sectors. The displays provided a window into the achievements of individuals with disabilities supported by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, reinforcing the city’s role as a leader in global inclusion.
