The WFD President, Dr Joseph J. Murray, delivered a keynote presentation at a symposium organised by Dovenschap in the Netherlands. The event marked the fifth anniversary of the official recognition of Dutch Sign Language, a significant milestone in advancing the rights of deaf people in the country.
In his address, the WFD President underscored the importance of a holistic approach to inclusion. He stressed that the recognition of national sign languages must go with the protection of linguistic rights, the promotion of deaf culture, and sustained political commitment.
He further emphasised that true inclusion cannot be achieved through symbolic recognition alone. It requires concrete policy measures, accessibility in all areas of life, and the active participation of deaf communities in decision-making processes.
The symposium provided an important platform for reflection on progress made, while also calling for continued efforts to ensure that deaf people can fully exercise their rights and participate equally in society.
