Dhaka, July 4 (V7N) – The Advisory Council has approved a proposal to officially observe World Disability Day on December 3, replacing the previously designated date of March 15. The decision was made during the council’s 32nd meeting, held Thursday at the Chief Advisor’s Office in Tejgaon, Dhaka, and chaired by Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus.
 
The council also agreed to categorize both World Disability Day and National Disability Day as “Class B” national observances. In addition, April 2 has been formally declared as “World Autism Awareness Day,” aligning Bangladesh’s observance with international recognition set by the United Nations.
 
These decisions are part of ongoing government efforts to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and ensure the rights of persons with disabilities and neurodiverse individuals across the country. Officials emphasized the importance of global alignment in recognizing key observance dates to strengthen international cooperation and awareness campaigns.
 
In the same session, the council approved a separate proposal for Bangladesh to become a signatory to the Joint Convention on the Safety of Spent Fuel Management and on the Safety of Radioactive Waste Management, under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This move is aimed at enhancing the country's commitment to nuclear safety and responsible management of radioactive materials.
 
Additionally, to increase Bangladesh’s representation in international labor affairs, the council approved signing the constitution of the OIC Labour Centre, an organization under the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation dedicated to advancing workers' rights and labor standards among member states.
 
Government sources noted that these steps reflect Bangladesh’s intention to align with global norms in human rights, health, safety, and international cooperation. Official gazette notifications and implementation measures are expected in the coming weeks.
 
END/SMA/AJ/