WORLD REPORT ON HEARING

The ability to hear is a gift human beings are given to appreciate the amazing beauty of the world around us. It bestows aesthetics to life. It is also the medium for our learning and social interaction.
From my own personal experience as a child with a disability, I know the value of education and learning, which was not only my solace in the darkest hours of my life, but also the medium with which to achieve my full potential. Therefore, I find it unacceptable that even today millions of children in the world are deprived of their right to education and communication, thereby limiting them in their aspirations.

It is even more so because hearing loss can both be prevented and can be addressed. The WHO’s World report on hearing shines a strong light on the needs of the nearly 450 million people that need rehabilitation services for their disabling hearing loss. It also provides great insights into how the services can be developed in an equitable manner across the world.
On behalf of Rehabilitation International, I appreciate WHO’s ongoing commitment to this hidden disability and we are proud to be contributors to this important report. I sincerely hope that the release of this report will further promote the implementation of the “Prevention of deafness and hearing loss” resolution adopted by the World.
Health Assembly in 2017, so that all people, including those with hearing loss, can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. Rehabilitation International is fully committed to working together with the World Health Organization in this worthy endeavour