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This year’s International Week of the Deaf (22 - 28 September 2025) spotlights the essential role of sign languages in securing human rights. The 2025 theme – “NO HUMAN RIGHTS WITHOUT SIGN LANGUAGE RIGHTS” – underscores that sign language is a fundamental language, culture, and right for Deaf communities: when sign languages are respected and recognised, Deaf people can access education, health information, and public services on an equal basis – a prerequisite for building a truly inclusive and progressive society.
During the Week, each day will focus on a specific theme – ranging from celebrating Deaf leadership and affirming sign language rights to promoting multilingual education, ensuring access to emergency information, legal recognition of national sign languages, and strengthening sign language access services. All activities point toward a future in which everyone can “sign anywhere”.
Join us in respecting, learning, and creating conditions for sign language to appear more widely in schools, workplaces, hospitals, and public spaces – to help build a more equal society where “No one is left behind”.
Daily themes for the Week (22 - 28 September 2025)
Throughout the Week, communities and allies are encouraged to promote the visibility and use of sign languages, to advocate for legal recognition and adequate interpreting and communication services, and to amplify Deaf-led solutions that advance inclusion and human rights.
Nguyet Ha (compiled and edited)
