NAIU at the annual conference «European Day of Persons with Disabilities» in Brussels

November 28-29, 2024 in Brussels is taking place Annual conference «European Day of Persons with Disabilities» (EDPD), organized by the European Commission in cooperation with the European Disability Forum. This event is part of the EU's broader efforts to raise awareness and address the daily challenges faced by people with disabilities. It also marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The conference participants have the opportunity to discuss strategic goals, policy proposals and initiatives to improve the living conditions of people with disabilities for the next five years.

This year's conference is of particular importance as it takes place in the aftermath of the European Parliament elections and the formation of a new European Commission that will set new policy priorities, including disability. The conference also coincided with the implementation of the second phase of the European Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities for 2021-2030.

In the photo: NAIU representative Oleksandra Nazarenko and Philippa Tucker, Coordinator of the European Disability Forum for Eastern and Central Europe

The National Assembly of People with Disabilities of Ukraine takes part in this important event. Representative of the NAPD Secretariat Oleksandra Nazarenko - is an active participant of the conference. She is working on the project «Disability-inclusive multisectoral humanitarian assistance for IDPs, returnees, veterans and host communities in Ukraine».

Its presence at the event facilitates the exchange of experience and best practices with European colleagues, and also allows us to draw attention to important issues faced by people with disabilities in Ukraine.

The conference program covers discussion of various topics related to all 8 priority areas of the Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, including employment, independent living, transportation and other aspects. Special attention is paid to the issue of urban accessibility, analysis of achievements since 2010 and prospects for creating more inclusive and accessible urban spaces.

The conference will culminate in the Access City Award ceremony, which recognizes EU cities that are making outstanding efforts to become accessible to people with disabilities.

The participation of the NAPD in the conference emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in the field of protection of the rights of people with disabilities and helps to strengthen ties between Ukraine and European partners in this area.

Oleksandra Perkova, Communication Manager of the Project

project communication manager