DONATE

Global goals: the most important thing in the world?

Sightsavers, September 2015

NOTE: This article is more than five years old, but may still be relevant. For more recent content, see our news and blogs page.

This September, world leaders are meeting in New York at the UN General Assembly to set global goals for the next 15 years.

But in all their talk of sustainable goals, global development, targets and poverty, it’s important that they remember one thing: this is about people.

People who stand to gain – or lose – an awful lot, depending on whether politicians agree to make their inclusion a priority.

Over the next couple of weeks we’ll be sharing images and quotes from people with disabilities in developing countries who’ve been empowered to transform their lives – and others who still feel trapped, isolated and invisible. Will you help us show as many people as possible why we should demand inclusion for all people, by sharing the stories on Facebook and Twitter?

We’re starting with Anuradha (below), whose story is a brilliant example of how inclusion can take someone from a life of stifled potential to one of fulfilment and participation.

It’s time for our leaders to commit to a fairer, more inclusive world. Let’s make sure that when they meet in New York, the people who hold the most power remember those who currently hold the least power, and do something about that inequality.

An illuminated sign that reads 'End inequality' is held up amid the darkness at the Light the Way event in London.

Want to read more about our work?

Sightsavers and disability rights
A group of smiling women in Nigeria hold posters and leaflets about family planning.
Sightsavers blog

Creating lasting change for women with disabilities in Kaduna state, Nigeria

We're attending the Global Health Practitioners Conference to showcase our work to improve access to sexual health services for women with disabilities.

Salome Luka Net, October 2024
Three children wash their hands with soap at a sink.
Sightsavers blog

How people across Pakistan collaborated to beat trachoma

Sightsavers’ Adnan Youhana shares how eliminating the eye disease was a true team effort, involving surgeons, radio hosts and Lady Health Workers.

Adnan Youhana, October 2024
Twelve-year-old Arthur smiles as he stands next to his teacher, Mr Thompson. They stand in front of a chalk board in a classroom.
Sightsavers blog

Child eye health is key to wellbeing and accessing education

In line with World Sight Day’s focus on child eye health, our experts reveal why eye screenings in schools are boosting students’ academic performance.

Sightsavers, September 2024