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 inaugurated the 18th edition of the World Congress 2025, titled “We Are Inclusion,” today. This event marks a historic moment as it is the first time the congress is being held in the Middle East and North Africa, specifically at the Expo Centre Sharjah.
According to Emirates News Agency, the congress, organised by SCHS, brings together 152 speakers, including experts and self-advocates, from 74 countries and 160 organisations worldwide. The event promises 59 engaging dialogue sessions, with strategic support from the Sharjah Government Media Bureau and various local and international entities. As the most prominent event organised by Inclusion International, it occurs every four years in different member countries globally.
During the opening ceremony, attendees, including H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, witnessed an inspiring visual presentation featuring individuals from rehabilitation centers. These participants showcased their dreams and skills developed in fields such as engineering, arts, and sports-achievements made possible through inclusive policies and empowerment.
In a recorded address, Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SCHS, expressed her gratitude to the Ruler of Sharjah for his continuous support in humanitarian initiatives. She welcomed the international guests, emphasizing the congress’s theme, “We Are Inclusion,” as a reflection of shared values and a commitment to creating a world where everyone belongs.
Sheikha Jameela highlighted Sharjah’s dedication to empowering people with disabilities over the past four decades, setting a global standard for accessibility and dignity. She elaborated on the city’s initiatives benefiting families and the community, noting significant progress since embracing self-advocacy in 2009. The congress aims to enhance self-advocates’ abilities and encourage active family involvement in upholding rights.
Expressing gratitude to organisers and participants, Sheikha Jameela praised Inclusion International’s partnership in hosting this crucial event, aligning with SCHS’s vision of empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities. The congress is seen as a platform for raising awareness, understanding rights, and ensuring accessible environments and information.
Sue Swenson, President of Inclusion International, commended Sharjah’s efforts in supporting individuals with disabilities, highlighting its leadership in fostering cooperation and empowerment. She noted the congress’s role in encouraging the new generation to share ideas and experiences.
Hashem Taqi, President of Inclusion for the Middle East and North Africa, applauded Sharjah’s initiative, underscoring the congress’s agenda in amplifying self-advocates’ voices and promoting integration and empowerment through diverse sessions.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Duaij Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Paralympic Committee, emphasized sports’ role in integrating individuals with intellectual disabilities. Prince Mired bin Raad bin Yazid Al Hashemi, President of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Jordan, praised the congress’s commitment to advancing rights and outlined Jordan’s initiatives for integration.
Concluding the opening remarks, Jamie Cook, Executive Director of Inclusion International, highlighted the congress as a platform for shared visions and collaboration towards an inclusive world. H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah honored the congress’s sponsors and partners, also touring the congress halls to explore various pavilions and workshops showcasing efforts by individuals with disabilities.