Appeal to the people of Uzbekistan
Dear compatriots!
Today, in our country, the priority of state policy is to ensure human dignity, rights and interests. In this process, particular importance is attached to the provision of attention and practical care to our compatriots with disabilities, as well as to all our citizens, to their full support.
In this regard, it should be noted that our efforts, based on deep humanitarian ideas, are consonant with the goals and objectives of December 3 - International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
In connection with this day, widely celebrated both in our country and in the world, I express my sincere respect and best wishes to our compatriots with disabilities, of which there are about 1 million in our country.
It is known that Uzbekistan is implementing a wide range of measures aimed at providing assistance and support to persons with disabilities from society and the state, and actively involving them in social and political life. Currently, a number of structures specializing in supporting citizens belonging to this category are effectively operating, in particular, the Society of the Disabled of Uzbekistan, the Association of the Disabled, the Society of the Blind, the Society of the Deaf.
The most important thing is that not a single one of our compatriots who, by the will of fate, has become disabled, remains outside the loving attention of our people and state bodies, and with his diligence and skill not only takes his place in life, but also becoming an example for many people with his perseverance, patience and gratitude.
We highly appreciate your noble aspirations and express our deep gratitude to all of you for your active participation in our social and economic life.
Dear friends!
In order to ensure the rights and interests of citizens with disabilities, who are an integral part of our society, to improve working and living conditions in the country, a number of laws and more than 25 other regulatory legal documents have been adopted in recent years. and a solid legal framework has been established.
This makes it possible to provide medical and social services to representatives of this category, create more favorable conditions for them to study, work, use qualified medical services, realize their talents and potential, in a word, feel like a full-fledged member of our society.
Today, addressing all our people, I call on you, my dear compatriots, to actively continue the good work we have started in this direction. To this end, we are implementing comprehensive measures to build an inclusive society with equal opportunities for all citizens, including persons with disabilities. On this basis, we have made it an important task to gradually move from the outdated medical model of determining disability to a generally recognized social model.
From now on, in the construction and reconstruction of buildings and structures, public transport, the production of information and communication media, the possibility of unhindered use by persons with disabilities will be of paramount importance.
Work will be carried out to double the coverage of rehabilitation and prosthetic centers for the disabled, expand about 10 such centers operating in the regions, and equip them with modern medical and rehabilitation equipment.
I assure you that we will mobilize all our strengths and capabilities so that you do not feel lonely, acquire the necessary knowledge and skills, actively participate in all spheres and sectors, go in for physical education and sports, and provide for your cultural needs.
I take this opportunity to wish you all good health, peace, family happiness and good luck.
With deep respect,
Shavkat Mirziyoyev,
President of the Republic of Uzbekistan