Beirut, Lebanon, 21 October
What: As part of ongoing efforts to promote inclusive employment and entrepreneurship for persons with disabilities in the Arab region, the Economic and Social Commissions for Western Asia (ESCWA), is organizing a regional conference to launch the "Arab Inclusive Employment and Entrepreneurship Compact" in cooperation with the International Labour Organization (ILO). The Compact encourages interested companies, small and medium-sized enterprises, and other entities to create inclusive work environments for persons with disabilities.
When: Tuesday 21 October 2025, at 9 a.m. Beirut time.
Where: UN House in Beirut and online via Zoom.
Who: The opening session will feature welcoming remarks by:
- Mr. Mohammad Haidar, Minister of Labour, Lebanon
- Mr. Rashid bin Ahmed Al Shamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Development, Oman
- Ms. Jawaher Ibrahim Al-Duaij Al-Sabah, Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Affairs, Kuwait
- Ms. Ruba Jaradat, Regional Director for Arab States, ILO
- Ms. Mehrinaz El Awady, Officer-in-Charge (OIC), Deputy Executive Secretary for Programmes, ESCWA
Participants will include senior officials from ministries, international organizations, civil society, academia, and the private sector from the Arab region and beyond.
Why: The conference provides an opportunity to share best practices and policies that support the inclusion of persons with disabilities in employment and entrepreneurship. It will also showcase studies from the Arab region and other countries with the aim of promoting South-South dialogue and knowledge exchange.
The conference will also feature a job fair dedicated to promoting inclusive employment practices and connecting persons with disabilities with potential employers and entrepreneurship opportunities.
Media colleagues who wish to attend the conference in person should confirm their attendance by 20 October with the ESCWA Communication Unit.
