‘We Are Inclusion’ World Congress Opens in Sharjah

Photo:WAM

Sharjah is once again showing its leadership in humanitarian work as it hosts the World Congress 2025 “We Are Inclusion”. The event, which begins on Sunday at the Expo Centre Sharjah, is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

The congress is organised by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) in cooperation with Inclusion International and with the support of the Sharjah Government Media Bureau. This major gathering is focused on inclusion and empowerment of people with intellectual disabilities, an issue that touches millions of lives worldwide.

A Global Platform for Inclusion

The three-day congress, running from September 15 to 17, is one of the largest events in the world dedicated to inclusion. It brings together:

59 discussion panels

152 expert speakers

134 self-advocates (people with disabilities speaking for themselves)

125 organisations

Over 500 participants from 74 countries

These numbers show how global the effort has become. From governments to NGOs, educators to families, all are gathering in Sharjah to share ideas and solutions.

Moving Beyond Awareness to Real Policy

The theme “We Are Inclusion” is not just about raising awareness. The focus is on turning ideas into action. For many years, inclusion was mostly discussed at the community level—through local programs, workshops, and support groups. While these efforts were important, they often lacked the power to bring real change at the national level.

This congress aims to create a roadmap for governments. The discussions will highlight how countries can design policies that ensure people with intellectual disabilities have equal rights in education, employment, health, and daily life.

Sharjah’s Role in Global Inclusion

Sharjah has long been recognised for its humanitarian vision. The emirate has invested in creating opportunities for people of determination (the UAE term for people with disabilities). Hosting this congress confirms Sharjah’s position as a hub for social inclusion in the Arab world and beyond.

By welcoming hundreds of advocates, experts, and families from across the globe, Sharjah is not only raising its profile but also showing that inclusion is a universal responsibility.

Why This Congress Matters

For families of people with intellectual disabilities, inclusion is not just a policy matter—it is about real life and dignity. Every child and adult deserves access to schools, jobs, healthcare, and community life. Yet in many countries, barriers remain.

Events like this help to:

Give a voice to people with disabilities through self-advocates.

Share global experiences so nations can learn from each other.

Push governments to move from promises to action.

Highlight success stories that prove inclusion is possible when society works together.

Looking Ahead

The Sharjah congress is expected to produce recommendations that will guide future policies worldwide. By placing inclusion at the centre of the global agenda, the event may mark a turning point in how societies approach disability rights.

The congress also reflects a larger change in global thinking—from treating disability as a social issue to recognising it as a human rights issue. The presence of so many countries and organisations shows that this is not a regional concern but a shared global mission.

Conclusion

The World Congress 2025 “We Are Inclusion” is more than a conference; it is a movement for justice and equality. With strong leadership from Sharjah and international cooperation, it has the potential to influence how governments, communities, and individuals shape a world where no one is left behind.

Inclusion is not charity. It is about rights, respect, and opportunities. Sharjah’s congress is a reminder that when societies embrace inclusion, they unlock the full potential of every human being.