Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Honorary President of the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS), officially opened the 18th edition of the World Congress 2025, titled "We Are Inclusion," today. This congress represents a significant milestone as it is hosted in the Emirate of Sharjah for the first time in the Middle East and North Africa, taking place at the Expo Centre Sharjah.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the event features an impressive lineup of 152 speakers, including experts, self-advocates, and representatives from institutions across the globe, coming together from 74 countries and 160 organisations. Attendees can look forward to 59 engaging dialogue sessions. The congress enjoys strategic support from the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, alongside various local and international entities. As the most prominent event organised by Inclusion International, it takes place every four years in a different member country around the world.
During the opening ceremony, H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and other attendees were captivated by an inspiring visual presentation showcasing individuals from rehabilitation centers dedicated to supporting people with disabilities. The participants shared their dreams and the diverse skills they have cultivated in areas like engineering, the arts, and sports-achievements made possible through effective empowerment and inclusive policies.
In a recorded address, Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Ruler of Sharjah, for his unwavering patronage and steadfast support for all humanitarian initiatives. This support has been a cornerstone of the accomplishments and continues to guide efforts.
Sheikha Jameela welcomed the congress guests from various countries, stating, 'Your presence from around the world is a powerful testament to our shared commitment to a common goal: to create a world where everyone belongs. We have chosen the theme 'We Are Inclusion' because we believe that inclusion goes beyond an idea or a target; it is a core part of our values.'
She highlighted the city's dedication to caring for and empowering people with disabilities over the past four decades, emphasising its commitment to defending their rights and facilitating their integration into society. Thanks to the vision of H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah, the Emirate of Sharjah and the UAE have set a global standard for cities and nations that prioritise comprehensive accessibility and uphold the dignity of all individuals.
Sheikha Jameela emphasised the city's initiatives benefiting families and the community, stating, 'Since we embraced the concept of self-advocacy in January 2009, we have made significant progress. We have organised, participated in, and hosted numerous conferences, seminars, and forums. Our goal has been to enhance the abilities of self-advocates, empowering them to make choices and decisions.'
She expressed gratitude to all the organisers and participants from both regional and international organisations, stating, 'We are thrilled to partner with Inclusion International in hosting this crucial event. For over 60 years, this organisation has been dedicated to championing the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities worldwide.'
Sheikha Jameela highlighted the significance of the congress in raising awareness and advancing services aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities. She remarked, 'Through this congress, we underscore the importance of self-advocates understanding their rights as they express themselves, seek the support they require to make informed decisions, and collaborate on issues that matter to them.'
Sue Swenson, the President of Inclusion International, delivered a speech highlighting the extensive efforts made by Sharjah, alongside H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah, to support individuals with disabilities for many decades. This commitment has positioned Sharjah as a global model worthy of emulation in this important field.
In her address, she emphasised the congress's pivotal global agendas focused on creating better environments for people with disabilities. She remarked that the congress serves as a valuable platform for the new generation, encouraging them to share ideas, experiences, enthusiasm, and knowledge.
Hashem Taqi, the President of Inclusion for the Middle East and North Africa, also spoke, commending Sharjah's initiative in orchestrating this significant congress. His remarks were aimed to amplify the voices of self-advocates and their families on a global stage. He underscored the key provisions of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, including principles of equality and non-discrimination, independent living, societal integration, and employment opportunities, among others.
During his speech, Sheikh Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, the President of the Bahrain Paralympic Committee and a guest of honour at the congress, expressed his delight at attending this global gathering. He extended his gratitude to the Emirate of Sharjah for its support of individuals with disabilities.
Prince Mired bin Raad bin Yazid Al Hashemi, President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Jordan, delivered a video address praising the congress's commitment to advancing the rights and freedoms of individuals with disabilities, particularly in Arab countries where this community needs greater support and solidarity.
Concluding the opening remarks, Jamie Cook, Executive Director of Inclusion International, emphasised that the congress serves as a unified platform for the shared visions and values of self-advocates, families, supporters, and various global organisations. She highlighted the event's aim to nurture collaboration and connections that could lead to shared objectives in the future.
At the conclusion of the opening ceremony, H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah honoured the sponsors, strategic partners, and supporters of the congress. During the opening, the Ruler of Sharjah took the opportunity to tour the congress halls, visiting the various pavilions and workshop spaces.