Remarks at International Day of Sign Language 2025

Representatives of the Lao Deaf Association, the Hands of Hope Center, Organizations of Persons with Disabilities and other civil society partners

Distinguished officials of the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare, and Vientiane Capital Education Department and other Government agencies

Ladies and gentlemen, girls and boys:

Good morning!

I am the UN Resident Coordinator and it is my honour to speak today as we mark the International Day of Sign Languages and the 4th Lao Sign Language Competition. This is my second international day in Lao PDR, and I can see our alliance has grown stronger from last year. From a small event held in a café last year, to a much bigger platform this time around – a forum where Deaf persons, especially children and youth, can showcase their talents, creativity and determination. It is indeed through their efforts that we see the power of sign language to break barriers, open opportunities and inspire change.

Today is therefore more than a commemoration – it is a reminder that sign language is not only a means of communication, but also a gateway to equality, dignity and full participation in society.

On behalf of the United Nations, I extend a heartfelt appreciation to the Hands of Hope Center, the Lao Deaf Association, and all partners for organizing this important event. Thank you for joining forces in making this event possible. 

I would like to recognize the presence today and continued stewardship of the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare and the Ministry of Education and Sports. The Government’s commitment to promoting the rights of persons with disabilities, and to advancing inclusive education, is vital for building a society where every person is valued and respected.

The official theme for this year’s commemoration is appropriate: “No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights”.

The theme reminds us that the ability to communicate is not a privilege, it is a fundamental human right. By promoting sign language rights, we ensure that Deaf people have access to information, to education, and can participate participation in public life. 

Each year this day also helps us advance the development and accessibility of Lao Sign Language, aiming to improve social participation and human rights for the estimated 160,000 Deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the country.

Dear friends:

Disability inclusion is a key theme in the work of the United Nations globally and in Laos. Together with our partners, we support inclusive education, equal access to essential services, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes. I’m pleased to acknowledge the presence here today of my UN colleagues from the International Labour Organization and the UN Development Programme, who co-lead UN’s Disability Inclusion Working Group. Advancing the rights of persons with disabilities is central to our commitment to leave no one behind in our collective pursuit of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

We are honored to support this event. We believe that language rights are human rights, and that every individual – whether Deaf or hearing – must have equal opportunities to succeed. By sponsoring this event, we re-affirm our commitment to work hand-in-hand with the Deaf community and all partners to build a future where inclusion is a reality.

Today is an opportunity to re-commit to supporting Lao PDR in implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The Convention a clear framework to removing barriers, upholding equality and ensuring that all persons with disabilities can enjoy their rights in all aspects of life. I hope that the Government finalizes its National Action Plan on CRPD soon, so that together we can turn the Convention’s principles into meaningful action that changes lives and strengthens communities.

Our gathering today is also a valuable opportunity for cooperation and networking. It shows us what’s possible when ministries, organizations of persons with disabilities, communities, and international partners come together with a shared vision. Together, for instance, we can improve the recognition of Lao Sign Language, expand its use in schools, workplaces and public life.

As we look ahead, let us carry this spirit of unity and collaboration towards concrete results. Let us work together to ensure that every child, every young person and every adult who is Deaf and hard-of-hearing can grow, learn and thrive with pride in their language and culture. 

By doing so, we not only empower Deaf people – we enrich our entire society.

Thank you, and I wish this celebration great success.