Remarks at International Sign Language Day 2024

H.E. Mr. Tsutomu Koizumi, Ambassador of Japan
Ms. Masumi Ikeda, Coordinator of the Minnano Café at ADDP
Colleagues from the Lao Government, UN agencies, development partners, and civil society
Ladies and gentlemen –
 

Good morning!

It is my pleasure to welcome you to this significant event commemorating the International Day of Sign Languages, under this year's theme: Sign Up for Sign Language Rights. I extend sincere thanks to our partners—the Association for the Deaf (AFD), the Asian Development with Disabled Persons (ADDP), and the Embassy of Japan—for making this gathering possible. Speaking on behalf of the United Nations in Lao PDR, it is an honor to stand with you to advocate for the rights and inclusion of the Deaf community. I would acknowledge the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) for their support in organizing this event.

Today, we are reminded of the critical role sign languages play in ensuring human rights for the Deaf. For millions worldwide, sign language is more than just communication—it is a gateway to dignity, equality, and full participation in society. 

Lao PDR has made significant strides toward disability inclusion, beginning with the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in 2009 and the recent finalization of a National Action Plan to implement its recommendations. UNDP is proud to support the Lao government in turning these commitments into tangible results, while also preparing for the second CRPD review in 2027, and raising awareness about the importance of sign language in Laos.

In celebration of the International Day of Sign Languages, UNDP is also organizing an open online event tomorrow, 24 September, in collaboration with the AFD. This event will reach a wider audience, spotlighting sign language as a tool for inclusion. My UNDP colleagues present here today can give you more details about the event. 

The ILO is similarly committed to promoting an inclusive world of work for persons with disabilities. Through initiatives like the Global Business and Disability Network, ILO fosters collaboration across businesses, civil society, and governments to create workforces that respect and welcome everyone. ILO exemplifies this by welcoming its first Deaf intern in its regional office in Bangkok, and using International Sign and closed captioning in its meetings. 

These efforts show a commitment to turning inclusion into reality. But despite these advancements, challenges remain. Access to digital communication for persons with disabilities is still inadequate in Lao PDR, as highlighted by the CRPD’s recommendations. Without official recognition of Lao Sign Language and with less than 10 interpreters in the entire country, many Deaf individuals continue to face obstacles in accessing essential services.

On the global stage, disability inclusion is gaining more prominence. The Summit of the Future that is happening in New York today provides a valuable opportunity for young people with disabilities to share their vision for a more inclusive world. Acknowledging their contributions at both national and global levels is crucial to shaping a future grounded in equity and equality.

Today's event offers a meaningful platform for dialogue and collaboration, bringing together key stakeholders—government, development partners, civil society, and the vibrant Deaf community. Together, we can forge a path toward a more inclusive society where no one is left behind. Organizations like AFD and ADDP are at the forefront of this effort, advocating for greater recognition of Lao Sign Language and empowering persons with disabilities.

On behalf of the United Nations in Lao PDR, I want to reaffirm our commitment to this cause. We will continue working closely with the government and our partners to advance disability inclusion, driven by the principle of "nothing about us without us”.

Thank you for being here early this morning and for your support to the Deaf community. If you’re not yet a partner or supporter, please become one. With the Deaf community present, visible and included, our society will only be stronger and poised to thrive.