Since 1992, by the decision of the United Nations General Assembly, May 5th is globally recognized as the "International Day of Persons with Disabilities." This day aims to raise awareness about the rights of individuals with disabilities and to foster their integration into society.
After the return of our national leader Heydar Aliyev to political power in Azerbaijan for the second time, consistent measures were taken across all sectors to safeguard the rights and health of individuals with disabilities. A robust legislative framework was established in this regard. The endorsement of the "State Program for the Protection of Human Rights" on June 18, 1998, exemplifies the profound attention dedicated to human rights protection in our nation, particularly concerning the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Presently, President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan is actively advancing the enactment of legislative measures that offer new legal avenues for the social welfare of persons with disabilities and the resolution of social challenges. Significant milestones include the approval of the "National Action Plan for the Protection of Human Rights in the Republic of Azerbaijan" on December 28, 2006, and the "National Action Program aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of human rights and freedoms protection in the Republic of Azerbaijan" on December 27, 2011. These initiatives introduced new normative acts delineating social, economic, and legal safeguards for individuals with disabilities.
The Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan titled "On Prevention of Disability and Children's Limited Health Opportunities, Rehabilitation, and Social Protection of Disabled Children and Children with Limited Health Opportunities" outlines provisions for addressing the root causes of disability and limited health opportunities among children. It emphasizes their rehabilitation and ensures their participation in various aspects of public life in accordance with their individual capabilities and interests, thus providing legal assurance.
In our nation, raising the age limit of children with disabilities to 18 and introducing reforms to enhance housing conditions are among the notable advancements. Additionally, amendments in existing legislation concerning the retention of preferential housing registration for family members of deceased registered war disabled individuals, as well as provisions for compensation to victims of occupational injuries and occupational diseases in privatized and liquidated state enterprises, represent pivotal reforms in this domain.
