Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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December 3, 2025 Healthcare
On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated annually on December 3, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe released a report highlighting proven effective practices in promoting inclusive healthcare. The report provides examples of how countries in Europe and Central Asia are working to reduce the health gaps faced by more than 135 million people with disabilities.
The report presents a variety of approaches to addressing this issue, ranging from national legislative reforms to local service innovations. These examples demonstrate how healthcare systems can integrate inclusion principles into everyday practices and public health programs.
Despite progress, people with disabilities continue to face significant yet entirely avoidable inequalities, including a 20-year reduction in life expectancy compared to people without disabilities. The report states that governments, healthcare providers, and disability organizations are joining forces to change this.
"All of these examples share a common message: inclusive healthcare cannot be viewed as a stand-alone project," noted Shirin Kiyani, Technical Officer at the WHO Regional Office for Europe. "When countries adopt a systemic approach, supported by sustainable funding and clear governance structures in partnership with organizations of people with disabilities, changes become systemic and long-lasting."
The report includes examples from across the region: sign language interpretation services in Azerbaijan that enable meaningful communication between deaf people and healthcare workers; specialized early breast cancer detection programs for women with intellectual disabilities in Ireland; inclusive sports and fitness initiatives in Turkmenistan that promote health and social inclusion; and an emergency preparedness system in Iceland that takes into account the needs of people with disabilities.
All these practices are consistent with the strategic principles of the WHO European Framework for Action to Achieve the Highest Possible Standard of Health for Persons with Disabilities, endorsed by 53 Member States in the region. It is based on human rights, coordination with organizations of people with disabilities, and the integration of efforts across health, social protection, education, and public services.
The report concludes by emphasizing that simply raising awareness of existing problems is not enough. Infrastructure improvements will not yield sustainable results without reliable data systems and improved accessibility standards. Investments in structural reforms—such as training specialists and developing care pathways—can ensure long-term systemic change.
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