The European Day of Persons with Disabilities (EDPD) convened in Brussels to address key challenges and opportunities for improving the lives of persons with disabilities across Europe. FEPEDA’s President, Andre Cuenca, actively participated in this critical event, which underscored pressing issues and advanced new strategies for inclusion and equality.
Opening Session: A Call for Action
The event opened with discussions on the European political landscape, marked by the past European elections and the rise of political movements skeptical of the EU. The session highlighted growing inequalities and the need for initiatives promoting equality and inclusivity. Key recommendations included:
- Strengthening ties with the European Parliament to defend disability rights.
- Promoting societal inclusion over institutionalization.
- Recognizing and advocating for Sign Language as a European language.
Panel 1: Strategy for Disability Rights
The first panel examined gaps in employment and quality of life for persons with disabilities. Key findings included:
- Employment rates for persons with disabilities stand at 50%, compared to 75% for others, with significant disparities for women and young people.
- Half of EU Member States have set quantified employment targets, with Eurostat monitoring progress.
- There is an urgent need to bridge the gap between strategy and implementation while aligning methods across Europe through peer reviews, such as Belgium’s scheduled review in 2025.
The panel called for enhanced funding, measures to combat forced sterilization and violence against disabled women, and improved accessibility in technology and everyday items, including household appliances. It also emphasized independent living, electoral rights, and access to justice.
Panel 2: Advocating for Independent Living
A powerful testimony from a Portuguese woman with disabilities illustrated the transformative impact of community support and accessible housing. Key issues discussed included:
- The slow pace of social change and Europe’s reluctance to shift away from institutionalization.
- The need for increased funding to facilitate deinstitutionalization.
- Independent living as a fundamental freedom requiring a reimagined support model.
Access City Award: Showcasing Excellence in Accessibility
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Access City Award honored cities excelling in accessibility:
- 1st Prize: Vienna, Austria
- 2nd Prize: Nuremberg, Germany (noted for transport)
- 3rd Prize: Cartagena, Spain
- Special Mention for Role Model on Built Environment and Transport: Boras, Sweden
- Special Mention for Accessible Sports infrastructure : Nuremberg
The awards highlighted innovative use of digital technologies and underscored the universal relevance of accessibility as Europe’s population ages.
Panel 3: Building Inclusive Cities
The final panel focused on creating accessible urban environments. Testimonies underscored challenges such as inaccessible public transport and facilities. Recommendations included:
- Involving persons with disabilities early in planning processes.
- Expanding accessibility to include private spheres and digital platforms.
- Promoting education and awareness to foster welcoming, inclusive cities.
Closing Reflections
The event concluded with a collective commitment to:
- Implement employment policies targeting young people with disabilities.
- Secure funding for independent living housing initiatives.
- Ensure practical implementation of disability strategies, emphasizing autonomy and social interaction.
Looking ahead, the next EDPD will spotlight innovations in one of Europe’s most accessible cities, reinforcing the collective effort to build a more inclusive society.
