The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated annually on December 3, was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992. This day aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities, who make up over one billion people worldwide, or about 15% of the global population. It is supported by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), adopted in 2006, which emphasizes the importance of accessibility and inclusion as fundamental rights.

The observance originated from the International Year of Disabled Persons in 1981 and the subsequent Decade of Disabled Persons from 1983-1992, focusing on equal opportunities, rehabilitation, and prevention of disabilities. Each year, the day addresses a specific theme reflecting current issues and goals related to disability rights and inclusion. Recent themes have focused on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for a disability-inclusive recovery.

Individuals with disabilities often face significant challenges, including poorer health outcomes, lower educational achievements, limited economic opportunities, and higher rates of poverty and violence. The CRPD and the observance of this day highlight the need for states to remove barriers to inclusion and ensure full participation in all aspects of life, advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities across political, social, economic, and cultural spheres.

In South Africa, we every year celebrate a Disability Month from the 3rd of November to the 3rd of December. During this month, many public and private organisations hold disability events. Colloquially, the month is called DRAM (Disability Rights Awareness Month).