International Day of Persons With Disabilities 2025 at the Vienna International Centre

Yesterday, we gathered at the Vienna International Centre, the UN Headquarters in Vienna, for a meaningful event organized by the UN Disability Inclusion Network (UN DIN VIC). The event was an example of our collective commitment to disability inclusion and featured inspiring speakers from various entities.

Key Highlights:
Opening Address by Sotirios Markopoulos, President of DIN, highlighting the challenges faced by staff affected by disabilities and emphasizing that the DIN, with the support of its allies at all VBOs, will continue to advocate and support them.
Ambassador Peter Potman, representing the Zero Project Ambassadors Circle, shared insights into the work of the Circle and the contributions of the Dutch embassy in the area of Disability Inclusion.
Maria Cleofe Natividad, Secretary of the Policy Making Organs, conveyed the greetings of DG Rafael Grossi and discussed the activities of the IAEA in promoting Disability Inclusion.
Ann de la Roche, Chief of HRMS at UNOV/UNODC, described all the efforts made by UN Vienna and the ongoing implementation of the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy.
Micheal Conneely, Director of HR, UNIDO, spoke about Disability Inclusion at UNIDO and the various projects UNIDO is leading worldwide.
Emma Webb, Chief of Cabinet, CTBTO, highlighted that the CTBTO is not only building a supportive workplace but is also planning concrete steps to provide necessary resources for persons with disabilities to thrive.

The event concluded with a joyful musical performance by Laura Rambossek and Dominic Rapcic from the Wiener Konzerthausgesellschaft, adding a vibrant touch of celebration to our gathering. It was followed by a coffee break, sponsored by the #staffcouncils of the main VBOs.

Thank you to all our speakers, attendees, and partners for making this event a resounding success!

#Disability #UNVIENNA #DINEvent #InclusiveWorkplace #VIC

Photo Credit: CTBTO Public Information / Pablo Mehlhorn