Message of the Deputy Minister of National Defence, Mr. Ioannis Kefalogiannis, for December 3, “International Day of Persons with Disabilities”.
“December 3 has been honourarily proclaimed International Day of Persons with Disabilities, who in our country constitute 10% of the general population. Everyday life shows that despite the tireless support of their circle, they face an uneven battle on a personal level, within an environment that constantly poses obstacles, on the one hand to the improvement of their quality of life, and on the other hand in terms of getting equal opportunities as our fellow people.
An indication of civilisation in a democratic society is undoubtedly the life quality of this sensitive group, and their unhindered access to all aspects of daily life, so as for them to actively and equally participate in the social, economical, and cultural affairs of the country.
The equal inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in any form of activity constitutes a non-negotiable right, something that, apart from the constant attempts for public information and raising awareness, ought to motivate us to promote mutual respect, as well as to fight all forms of exclusion, through necessary reforms and targeted actions.
In this context, the Ministry of National Defence has chosen to prioritise the implementation of the Governmental Action Plan for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, with the General Secretary of the Ministry of National Defence as reference point.
In support of the above, apart from interventions aiming at ensuring equal medical care, we organise and implement combined actions, with the active participation of Armed Forces personnel. Those include education and training, so as to attain a culture of respect, eradicate all forms of discrimination, as well as facilitate receiving relevant support services (companion duties, readers, and sign language interpreters). Additionally, the necessary works to improve the accessibility of Persons with Disabilities at the facilities of the Ministry of National Defence (medical facilities, museums, conscription services, etc.) are in progress, while at the same time we seek to develop productive partnerships with relevant associations and jointly responsible social entities.
The constant goal of completely and equally including Persons with Disabilities in the whole spectrum of private and public life undoubtedly constitutes an institutional obligation of our democratic society, and comes to life also through the Armed Forces, as a paramount pillar of social cohesion of our country”.
