Last December 3, the world observed International Day of Persons with Disabilities to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society.
While there is progress, there is still a long way to go when it comes to embracing diversity and inclusion initiatives as a whole—given the multiple crises that the world faces every day, the UN declared that the world is not on track to reach Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) targets by 2030. This is particularly evident for women with disabilities, as the numbers present various challenges and the urgent need for action and change.
The Facts
There are 1.5 billion people with disabilities worldwide. One in every five women has a disability. It is essential to address the unique challenges faced by the community. Despite growing awareness, women with disabilities encounter additional barriers that their male counterparts or women without disabilities do not face.
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There are 1.5 billion people with disabilities worldwide. One in every five women has a disability. It is essential to address the unique challenges faced by the community. Despite growing awareness, women with disabilities encounter additional barriers that their male counterparts or women without disabilities do not face.
Education is a fundamental right, yet it remains inaccessible to many girls and women with disabilities. Less than 5% of children and young people with disabilities have access to education and training. The global literacy rate for adults with disabilities is alarmingly low, at 3%, and for women, it drops to just 1%. These statistics highlight a significant gap in educational opportunities, exacerbating the cycle of marginalization.
Employment is a key driver of economic independence and social inclusion. However, women with disabilities face numerous obstacles in the workforce. Men with disabilities are almost twice as likely to be employed compared to women. When women with disabilities do find employment, they encounter unequal hiring and promotion standards, limited access to training and resources, and unequal pay for equal work.
These employment disparities limit their economic independence and hinder their ability to contribute to their communities. Additionally, women with disabilities are more likely to be engaged in unpaid work, further perpetuating economic inequality. Creating an inclusive workforce that values diversity and provides equal opportunities for women with disabilities is essential for breaking down these barriers.
TP Women: Driving Change and Equality by Empowering Women
TP strives to uphold and promote the UN’s ten fundamental principles and contribute to achieving SDGs. By dismantling these barriers and promoting inclusive policies, we can ensure that no woman or girl is left behind in the pursuit of SDG goal 5, which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.
TP Women was created to celebrate and empower women. The initiative recognizes the profound value in elevating discussions around gender equality and empowerment. We are committed to being agents of change to make a positive impact in and out of the workplace. Through TP Women’s programs and initiatives, TP promotes equal opportunities, professional development, and an empathetic culture where every voice is valued and heard.
By fostering an inclusive environment that embraces diversity and promotes equality, TP Women strengthens our commitment to empowering all women, including those with disabilities. Our initiatives focus on creating supportive networks, providing mentorship opportunities, and advocating for policies that promote inclusivity and equal representation.
This sense of community provides support, with TP Women serving as a platform for amplifying voices and driving meaningful change. Together, we can break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more inclusive society where every woman can thrive.
For more information about TP Women, click here.
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