The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to provide employment opportunities for disabled persons, as part of the celebration of the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Santi Promphat, signed the MOU with Big C Supercenter, which agreed to hire disabled persons to work at its store and food outlets.
Thailand joins the United Nations in observing the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 each year. The designated theme for the observance of the 2012 International Day of Persons with Disabilities is “Removing barriers to create an inclusive and accessible society for all.” The day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the inclusion of persons with disabilities in every aspect of life.
Minister Santi said that the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security and the Disabilities Thailand are joining hands in organizing an event to mark the 2012 International Day of Persons with Disabilities at Challenger Hall, IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi province on December 3.
He said that the Government is well aware of the importance of disabled persons and intends to develop and promote their rights and opportunities. For instance, he said, disabled persons have the right to have access to free medical care and education.
The Government has offered a monthly allowance of 500 baht to people with disabilities across Thailand. Various workplaces have been urged to provide facilities and services for disabled persons. A commitment has also been made to make public transport more accessible for disabled persons.
Thailand has enforced the Regulation on the Employment of Persons with Disabilities, which mandates public and private organizations to hire persons with disabilities in a ratio of one disabled person to every 100 regular employees. The Regulation on the Sign Language Service has also been enforced, which enables deaf people to ask for the service 24 hours a day for medical and health services, job applications, lodging complaints or other services.
Thailand has also benefited from the active leadership of persons with disabilities, such as Senator Monthian Buntan, who has been elected to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for the term 2013-2016.
