For the first time, the International Social Security Association (ISSA) co-organized the event with Rehabilitation International (RI Global) and the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO) from 23–25 September 2024.

In his opening address, ISSA President Dr Mohammed Azman emphasized that rehabilitation is a crucial pillar of an inclusive society, integral to social security systems. He drew from his personal experience: “As a trained medical doctor, I have seen firsthand the critical intersections between social security, health, work injury prevention, employment, and pensions. And through that lens, I’ll say this: prevention comes before rehabilitation, and rehabilitation before compensation.”

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Advancements in medical care, accessible workplaces, and policies like the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities have increased the potential for individuals with disabilities to re-enter the labour market. However, return-to-work rates remain low, posing challenges for social security systems already strained by long-term sickness and early retirement.

Globally, social security systems face pressure to adopt holistic and proactive approaches. As populations age and work evolves, the demand for sustainable social security and health care systems continues to grow. This shift requires social security systems to actively support workforce reintegration. Since 2020, the ISSA Working Group on Rehabilitation has promoted a cross‑sectoral, people‑centred approach, proving crucial in this effort. The ISSA’s Vision Zero strategy, emphasizing the importance of creating injury-free environments and promoting comprehensive safety measures in rehabilitation practices, was also highlighted in Abu Dhabi.

The Congress addressed financial, institutional and technical barriers, emphasizing international collaboration and emerging technologies. Participants exchanged knowledge and explored innovative strategies and good practices to improve rehabilitation and enhance the active participation of persons with disabilities in the labour market. By fostering international collaboration, ISSA members aim to enhance rehabilitation efforts and support a more effective return-to-work process globally, led by the Working Group on Rehabilitation.