Sharjah: For the first time in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), the Emirate of Sharjah hosted the 18th edition of the World Congress 2025, 'We Are Inclusion', under the patronage and in the presence of Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the event, which lasted for three days and concluded on September 17, was organised by the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services (SCHS) and Inclusion International, with strategic support from the Sharjah Government Media Bureau. The congress gathered 152 speakers and 600 participants from 160 organisations spanning 74 countries, including self-advocates, family members, experts, and policymakers, across 59 sessions.

During the event, Inclusion International awarded Sheikha Jameela bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, an honorary lifetime membership. This recognition was granted for her pivotal contributions to the global movement aimed at empowering people with intellectual disabilities and enhancing the rights and roles of their families in society.

This accolade is a distinguished international honour given by the world's largest network advocating for the rights of persons with intellectual disabilities and their families. It establishes Sheikha Jameela as one of the foremost global figures who have significantly advanced the protection, empowerment, and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities on the international stage.

Sheikha Jameela stated, 'This honour serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of SCHS, which, since its establishment, has stood as a beacon of inclusion, a leading institution in specialised knowledge and services, and a major driver of international cooperation and partnerships.'

Meanwhile, Sue Swenson, President of Inclusion International, noted, 'The emirate has demonstrated that investing in inclusive policies positively transforms the lives of individuals and families while strengthening communities. Hosting this congress underlines Sharjah's role as a key partner in shaping a more inclusive international future.'

The congress, convened every four years in a member country, reflects Sharjah's commitment to the principles of Inclusion International. These principles include inclusive education, community inclusion, empowerment, equality, and the protection of rights, which have been translated into practical programmes and policies yielding success over the past decades.