In Bangladesh, millions of people with disabilities face significant barriers to accessing health care, highlighting the need for health systems to address their specific needs. Health services often remain out of reach when financing systems fail to ensure accessibility, affordability, and equity. Catastrophic out-of-pocket costs for essential services, limited coverage for treatments, and lack of access to medical devices can push families into poverty and social exclusion.
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Children with Down syndrome actively participated in the event.
Photo Credit: WHO-Bangladesh
Building inclusive health financing is essential for creating a sustainable health system that serves everyone in Bangladesh. By implementing policies that guarantee equitable access to health care, the country can strengthen its health system, protect vulnerable populations, and move closer to achieving health for all. On 4 December 2025, UN agencies supported the organization of a national symposium to mark the
International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) at Carnival Hall, BCFCC, Dhaka. Held in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Welfare (MoSW), the Jatiyo Pratibandhi Unnayan Foundation (JPUF), Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), and civil society partners, the event brought together a diverse range of stakeholders. Participants included persons with disabilities, youth with disabilities, representatives from national and grassroots OPDs, government ministries, UN agencies, civil society organizations (CSOs), private-sector networks, and media representatives, all of whom contributed to amplifying the event’s key messages.
The primary objective of this symposium was to create an inclusive platform for dialogue and engagement, enabling participants to discuss the most pressing disability-related issues that require national attention. Through collective discussions and the sharing of lived experiences, the event aimed to support Bangladesh’s progress toward a disability-inclusive society and ensure that no one is left behind in the country’s social and economic development.
Dr. Rajesh Narwal, Deputy WHO Representative, attended as the guest of honour and shared WHO’s vision and actions towards the disability inclusive health systems and society. Dr. Narwal emphasized that globally and estimated 16% population has at least one disability, with prevalence rates higher in rural areas and amongst poorer socioeconomic strata. He noted that persons with disabilities continue to face systemic barriers, including limited access to health services, education, employment, and social protection. “Let us reaffirm today that disability inclusion is central to social progress. Together, we can create a Bangladesh where every person, regardless of ability, enjoys dignity, opportunity, and good health.”
WHO Bangladesh is committed to support the Government and partners in advancing disability-inclusive health systems. Our future plans include developing a model disability-inclusive primary health care system bring care closer to people, improving access to assistive technology and addressing preventable blindness. The plan will be implemented with Government leadership and with integrated community-based approaches. We hope these initiatives will not only improve health outcomes but also empower individuals to participate fully in society.
The event was further graced by H.E. Sharmeen S. Murshid, Hon’ble Advisor to the Ministry of Social Welfare, Government of Bangladesh, who attended as the Chief Guest and delivered an inspiring speech. In her remarks, she called for a strengthened national movement toward disability inclusion, noting: “Our society cannot be truly inclusive unless we fully consider the needs of persons with disabilities. Inclusion begins with accurate data, functional structures, and accessible systems.”
The programme also featured the premiere of an audio-visual presentation on understanding disability and a live performance by children with Down syndrome. In addition, presentations were delivered on the IDPD 2025 theme and the Bangladesh context, highlighting key challenges, pathways for progress, and insights from UNDP Bangladesh on championing disability-inclusive development. For more information about this publication, please get in touch with Salma Sultana, NPO – Communication and Media, WHO Bangladesh, e-mail [email protected]
/countries/bangladesh/the-awarded-organizations-made-significant-contributions-to-advancing-the-rights-and-well-being-of-persons-with-disabilities.jpg?sfvrsn=cbacc408_2 "The awarded organizations made significant contributions to advancing the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities")
The awarded organizations made significant contributions to advancing the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
Photo Credit: WHO-Bangladesh