Sharjah to Host the First World Congress on Inclusion in 2025

World Congress on Inclusion 2025 to Take Place in Sharjah

In a groundbreaking move, Sharjah, located in the United Arab Emirates, will serve as the host for the World Congress of Inclusion International from September 15 to 17, 2025. This event marks the first time the congress will be held in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Under the theme "We Are Inclusion," the congress aims to unite participants from over 115 countries, including leaders, advocates, and experts in the field of disability rights.

With His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, a member of the UAE Supreme Council and the ruler of Sharjah, sponsoring the event, the congress promises to be a pivotal forum focused on protecting the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities and promoting inclusive practices across various aspects of life. The Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS), in collaboration with Inclusion International, will organize the congress, which is expected to draw around 850 attendees.

Sheikha Jamila bint Muhammad Al Qasimi, the general director of SCHS, expressed the importance of this event, stating, "Hosting such a significant international gathering for the first time in the MENA region reflects Sharjah's strategy of building an inclusive society. It is crucial for individuals with intellectual disabilities to have a real voice in matters that affect their lives."

The event will provide a vital platform for sharing experiences, discussing pressing issues, and disseminating best practices for supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities. Various sessions will cover key topics such as inclusive education, family and community support, employment opportunities, access to healthcare and humanitarian services, alternative care models, legal advocacy, social protection, self-advocacy development, and enhancing the capacity of organizations working in the field of disability.

Soo Swenson, the president of Inclusion International, highlighted the significance of the congress, saying, "This congress is a central event for our global movement. It is the voices of individuals with disabilities, their families, and organizations that shape the discussions, exemplifying what true inclusion looks like."

Pre-registration for the congress is already open at a reduced fee on the official congress website. This event is anticipated to yield practical recommendations and strategies aimed at fostering inclusivity and addressing the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.

The congress, being the 18th of its kind, is set to take place at the Expo Centre Sharjah and promises to be a cornerstone event in advocating for disability rights at a global level. As the world turns its attention to Sharjah in 2025, the congress aims to leave a lasting impact on the landscape of inclusion not just within the MENA region, but across the globe.

For more details and to register, visit inclusion.eventsair.com/world-congress.