23/09/2026
*INTERNATIONAL DAY OF SIGN LANGUAGES - 23 SEPTEMBER*
*2026 Theme: Declaring deaf people’s human rights*-
The 2026 International Day of Sign Languages calls for action to make deaf people’s human rights a reality in all areas of life. Under the theme “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights”, the Day highlights the importance of recognising, protecting and promoting these rights, including full access through national sign languages.
This is also the theme for the International Week of Deaf People, which is observed from 21 to 27 September 2026 with daily sub-themes.
*2026: Two milestones* -
2026 holds particular significance as it marks two important milestones:
the 75th anniversary of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)
20 years since the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which has been a key instrument for advocacy, driving change, shaping policies, and strengthening the recognition of national sign languages.
The milestones not only celebrate decades of progress, but also underscore how far the global deaf communities have come in advancing their rights. As we mark these anniversaries, we are called not only to celebrate, but to act. This is a moment to advocate actively and accelerate the full realisation of deaf people’s human rights.