A measure of the humane and sustainable development of the Capital City.

In the development of a modern city, civilization is not only measured by high-rise buildings or economic growth rates, but also by how society cares for and supports vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities. For Hanoi – the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam – caring for people with disabilities is not only about implementing social welfare policies, but also a vivid expression of the tradition of compassion and the spirit of "leaving no one behind."

Over the years, Hanoi has implemented many policies to support people with disabilities, such as social allowances, health insurance, vocational training support, job creation, and improved access to education , transportation, and healthcare. Many models of livelihood support, vocational training, and community connection have helped people with disabilities become more confident and proactive in life. Many people with disabilities, through their own perseverance, have become role models, overcoming difficulties, affirming their self-worth, and making positive contributions to society. This shows that, when given the right conditions, people with disabilities can study, work, and contribute just like other citizens.

The issuance of Directive No. 14-CT/TU by the Standing Committee of the Hanoi Party Committee on strengthening leadership over the work related to people with disabilities in the new situation further affirms the city's political determination to build an inclusive, humane, and happy capital city. This is not only a requirement of social responsibility but also an essential demand for sustainable development goals.

However, facing the reality, the current efforts to care for people with disabilities still face many difficulties and gaps that need to be addressed. First and foremost are the barriers to infrastructure and accessibility. Many roads, public facilities, schools, train stations, bus stops, and recreational areas still lack essential amenities for people with disabilities, such as ramps, lifts, signage, and accessibility support systems. This makes it difficult for many people with disabilities to travel, study, and participate in social activities.

Job opportunities for people with disabilities remain limited. Although many businesses have changed their perceptions, in reality, many are still hesitant to hire disabled workers due to concerns about labor productivity or the associated support costs. Vocational training in some areas is still fragmented, not closely aligned with market needs, and lacks sustainability. Therefore, many people with disabilities still find it difficult to find stable employment that matches their abilities…

To ensure the effective implementation of Directive No. 14-CT/TU, Hanoi needs to simultaneously deploy many solutions with the spirit of placing people with disabilities at the center of policy. First, it is necessary to continue improving mechanisms and policies in a more substantive and inclusive direction; and to accelerate the review of urban infrastructure, public transportation, schools, hospitals, and administrative agencies to ensure convenient access for people with disabilities. In the process of building a smart city and digital transformation, attention should be paid to digital accessibility, ensuring that people with disabilities can conveniently use online public services.

Furthermore, the city needs to strengthen vocational training programs aligned with the practical needs of the labor market, support startups, provide preferential loans, and expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Businesses employing people with disabilities should be encouraged with appropriate support policies. More importantly, there must be a shift in societal perception towards recognizing people with disabilities as capable individuals who can contribute, rather than merely those in need of assistance.

Communication efforts need to be strengthened to spread the stories of people with disabilities overcoming difficulties, while also enhancing community responsibility in building an inclusive living environment. Political and social organizations, associations, and localities need to strengthen dialogue and listen to the voices of people with disabilities so that policies are more relevant to reality.

A livable city is not just for the healthy and fortunate, but a place where all citizens have the opportunity to live, study, work, and contribute with respect and equality. Caring for people with disabilities is therefore not only a responsibility, but also a measure of the humane and sustainable development of Hanoi today and in the future.

Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/thuoc-do-su-phat-trien-nhan-van-ben-vung-cua-thu-do-802401.html