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Remarks by the President of the Republic at the opening ceremony of the European Year of Disabled People, 2003, on 3 December 2002
03.12.2002


All men have been born equal. This principle, in the 18th century enshrined in the Constitution of the United States of America, has become one of the fundamental theses of modern humanism. But we are aware that we have not come to this world equally gifted in physical and mental terms. In the course of life, some people compared with others prove to be weaker and more helpless.

Yet, the equality I am talking about, in the contemporary democratic world must be guaranteed through equal possibilities. Those not capable of participating in struggle for existence on equal terms, should be given additional chances to develop this valuable and unique potential they have.

Quite frequently we have admired disabled athletes who, first, have had to literally win a victory over themselves in order to achieve great results in sport. We know of world-famous artists and athletes who have had to spend a big part of their lives locked up in their home-walls, but who, nevertheless, have been able to understand and value the world to a degree unattainable to the majority of the so-called sound in mind and body.

The disabled people are on a par with all other members of society. We just have to meet them halfway in order to enable them as well to reach their aims and goals. This possibly also means a closer co-operation between the local governments, state and disabled people than so far.

The Estonian society is what it is thanks to and including all those who make it up - apart from their age, capabilities, or peculiarities. The disabled people must not be a disturbing effort to the so-called healthy, since they are a natural part of our society. We must overcome those stereotypes of the past, according to which the world belonged to the healthy only. Above, I produced the example of disabled athletes as a paragon of how one should overcome his inhibitions. Yet, disabilities caused by life or nature can also be regarded as challenges of a kind making both you and us to overcome our inhibitions in the name of a better and safer future. I wish you to have faith in yourselves, trust in all those willing and able to help you, and love for life - which is the only one and unique to all of us!

Merry Christmas time and a Happy and Successful New Year 2003 to all of you!


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