Deputy Minister of National Defence message on the occasion of the 3rd of December, which has been established as International Day of Persons with Disabilities:
“The 3rd of December has been established as International Day of Persons with Disabilities, in order to always remind us the need to actively support the inclusion of our fellow citizens in all political, social, financial, and cultural aspects of life. Their struggle, which is often accompanied by the support of their families, is evident on a daily basis in an environment that still contains obstacles and inequalities, thus attempting to overcome hurdles, which render difficult their attempts for life quality improvement and securing equal opportunities, so that they can actively participate in all aspects of our society.
The life quality of Persons with Disabilities and their uninhibited access to all aspects of everyday life constitute one of the most basic civilisation indicators for a democratic society. The foremost goal of an organised society is their complete and equal integration within the whole spectrum of social activities, along with institutional support, and social sensibility.
The Ministry of National Defence, acting in accordance with the broader governmental framework for the implementation of the National Action Plan for the Rights of People with Disabilities, has appointed the Secretary General of the Ministry of National Defence as responsible for focusing on targeted interventions and legislative reformations.
In this case, actions for securing equal medical care and growing respect through training and educational programmes have been completed and are still being implemented for the personnel of the Armed Forces. Additionally, a digital platform for uploading medical reports by the Supreme Military Medical Committee. At the same time, in the framework of accessibility improvement in the facilities of the Ministry, ongoing works in the already existing buildings are being done, such as in medical facilities, draft services, and museums.
Also, it is noteworthy that the Ministry of National Defence aims at productive cooperation with relevant institutions working for the rights of Persons with Disabilities, supporting, in that manner, the attempt to create a society without discriminations and inequality.
The complete and equal integration of Persons with Disabilities in public and private life constitutes the basic pillar of a democratic society. The constant struggle, with coordinated actions and the contribution of the Armed Forces, renders their integration a reality, thus confirming their role as a pillar of social cohesion”.