Manila: Women and girls with disabilities continue to face discrimination and barriers linked to both their gender and disability, UN Women said recently. Marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the organization emphasized that such discrimination limits their access to services, economic opportunities, leadership, and participation in public life.

According to Philippines News Agency, UN Women underscored the importance of advancing social progress by fostering societies that respect the rights, dignity, and leadership of women and girls with disabilities. The organization highlighted their significant contributions to care systems, economic life, community resilience, and peacebuilding, asserting that societies become stronger when environments are accessible, inclusive, and grounded in human rights.

Statistics from the UN reveal that one out of every five women lives with a disability, accounting for about 20% of all women, compared to 12% of men. The data underscores the pressing need for inclusive policies and practices that address the unique challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities.