This year, some 3.7 billion people across the world have the opportunity to vote, more than ever before in history.

Yet, for countless persons with disabilities, significant barriers -- like inaccessible voting facilities or discrimination -- hinder their ability to shape the future they envision.

As part of the United Nations (UN) family, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is committed to amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities, including by promoting their political participation.

For example, that includes Libya where sign language systems are helping to ensure that people with hearing disabilities can have their say in elections.

Yet, inclusion goes beyond the ballot box.

It requires governance systems where everybody can be heard and represented.

Consider Nepal, where UNDP facilitates dialogues between persons with disabilities and Members of Parliament -- providing a new platform to advocate for their rights and aspirations.

We are also helping countries to seize the opportunities of new technologies.

For example, in Somalia, the UNDP Accelerator Lab launched a Disability Digital Lab, which provides a range of digital tools and training courses.

Indeed, the Pact for the Future calls for the full and equal participation of persons

with disabilities of both present and future generations in society.

This vision is more than an aspiration.

It is a critical step toward a world where everyone has the opportunity to be an architect of a more inclusive, just, and sustainable future for all.

Achim Steiner, Administrator, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3rd. The theme for this year is "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future."