Shafallah Forum on Disability to Open in Doha on January 22

Doha, January 18 (QNA) - The Fifth International Shafallah Forum, a three-day conference on issues related to disability under the theme 'Crisis, Conflicts and Disability: Ensuring Equality', will be held at the Shafallah Center here from January 22 to 24. This Forum is one of the world's foremost global conferences on issues related to disability and rehabilitation which the Shafallah Center for Children with Special Needs is hosting. Shafallah Center for Children with Special Needs Chairman Hassan Ali bin Ali said, "The Shafallah Center is pleased to organise the International Shafallah Forum for the fifth time. The conference complements one of the center's mission to host international forums that bring together key figures who will discuss the latest studies, assess the current practices and share their insights on topics related to disability. "This year, we have decided to launch the forum s official logo to represent its core aim and identity. The logo symbolises the forum's focus on humanity, promotes global unity and emphasizes the importance of coexistence. It is absolutely vital for us, to share our experience and knowledge, while providing the maximum support to people with special needs." The three-day forum, which brings together First Ladies, noted-dignitaries, policymakers, educators, persons with disabilities, leaders in the field and humanitarian relief organizations, will discuss and showcase the latest developments in inclusive emergency planning to ensure the protection and safety of persons with special needs during armed conflict, humanitarian crises and natural disasters. The focus of this year s forum will be on the marginalization of persons with special needs during recent natural disasters in Japan, Haiti, Pakistan and the United States, as well as the ongoing crises and conditions in refugee camps in the Middle East and Africa. United Nations Undersecretary General for Humanitarian Affairs Baroness Valerie Amos will be the keynote speaker at this year's forum, which will be attended by more than 15 First Ladies and VIPs from across the globe. Turkey, Netherlands, Jordan, Poland and Finland are among the participating countries in this year s forum. "The conference aims at helping people with special needs, while serving as a platform for dialogue and debate on issues and challenges facing different societies. It is recognized internationally for hosting renowned speakers and First Ladies, who are exerting special efforts and playing a dynamic role in spreading public awareness about issues facing children with special needs," said Hassan Ali bin Ali. (QNA)