Syria urges international support as 1.5 million live with war-related disabilities

New York, June 10 (SANA) Syria’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Kabawat called on international partners on Tuesday to increase support for disability rights and rehabilitation programs in Syria, saying 1.5 million Syrians are living with disabilities caused by more than a decade of war.

Speaking at the 19th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP19) at United Nations Headquarters in New York, Kabawat said the humanitarian impact of the war continues to affect millions of Syrians.

“Today, 1.5 million Syrians are living with disabilities caused by the war, including injuries resulting from airstrikes, explosive devices, chemical attacks and landmines,” she said.

According to the minister, more than 27% of Syrian households include at least one person with a disability.

Kabawat said the conference’s focus on protection from exploitation, resilient communities and meaningful representation reflects challenges that remain urgent in Syria.

“These are not abstract issues for us in Syria. They are realities we face every day,” she said.

The minister called for targeted international support in three priority areas: rehabilitation of infrastructure, psychosocial support and inclusive education.

She noted that school enrollment among children with disabilities remains below 30%, underscoring the need to expand access to education and specialized services.

Kabawat also highlighted the challenges facing women with disabilities, particularly those injured during the conflict who continue to seek employment opportunities and support in caring for their families.

Quoting former South African President Nelson Mandela, Kabawat added: “It always seems impossible until it is done.”

The minister said Syria is committed to turning commitments into concrete action and improving opportunities for persons with disabilities through stronger inclusion policies and support programs.

The three-day conference, held from June 9 to 11 under the theme “The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities after 20 Years,” brings together government officials, experts and civil society representatives to discuss progress and challenges in advancing disability rights worldwide.