United Nations, Dec 4 (NationPress) A UN global advocate has called for a significant shift in mindset to empower individuals with disabilities.

During a press conference held at UN Headquarters in New York on Wednesday (local time), Giles Duley, on the concluding day of his tenure as the UN global advocate for persons with disabilities in conflict and peacebuilding environments, expressed disappointment at his inability to amplify the voices of the disabled.

On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, he emphasized that there exists a systemic failure influenced by the prevailing attitudes towards disabled individuals, who are often regarded as a burden, according to reports from Xinhua news agency.

"I had a three-year appointment as a global advocate, yet I find myself stating that I feel I have failed, and the system has failed," said Duley, who lost three limbs during his service in Afghanistan, urging society to stop romanticizing disability narratives as sources of inspiration.

"Frequently, as someone with a disability, when I am invited to speak or deliver a lecture, whether at the UN or other organizations, the term used is inspiration. I am asked to provide an inspiring speech," he explained.

"However, my role is not to serve as an inspiration. I am not an advocate to inspire others. My responsibility is to share real stories, as the conditions for people with disabilities have not improved. Those who are vulnerable and marginalized in communities are often left behind during crises," Duley stated.

He pointed out that romanticized disability accounts do not capture the truth of most people's experiences, highlighting that while it may be uplifting to hear about Paralympic athletes or individuals who have climbed Everest despite missing limbs, such stories do not reflect the everyday realities faced by many.

Duley emphasized the necessity of shifting perceptions, stating, "We must stop viewing individuals with disabilities as victims and as mere sources of inspiration. Instead, we should recognize them as individuals whose society has erected barriers that hinder their achievements. We need to dismantle these barriers and enable them to empower themselves."

In a message for the International Day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for the social inclusion of disabled individuals.

"Individuals with disabilities are reshaping societies – driving innovation, influencing policies, and mobilizing for justice. Yet, they are often excluded from important decision-making processes," he stated. "Sustainable development cannot be achieved without the inclusion of people with disabilities."

However, he acknowledged that systemic obstacles remain, including discrimination, poverty, and inaccessible services, which continue to restrict the participation of over 1 billion individuals with disabilities globally, as noted by Guterres.

"On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let’s pledge to collaborate closely with disabled individuals in all their diversity, as equal partners," the UN chief urged. "When true inclusion occurs, everyone reaps the benefits. Together, we can cultivate more accessible, resilient communities where everyone can thrive."