Today (1 July 2020) Inclusion Europe contributed to a consultation on the next European Disability Strategy, organised by Helena Dalli, EU Commissioner for Equality.

Alongside other EU disability organisations Inclusion Europe recognises the significance of the strategy to date. And we know very well what we want from the next one. Clear direction matters.

(Of course we are not the only ones to have high expectations.)

EU should be the change it wants to see

What I also believe to be important is the EU seizing this opportunity to facilitate progress – and to lead by example.

There are plenty of areas where EU can and should implement direct and profound change:

• Employment of people with disabilities in EU services and agencies. (50.8% of persons with disabilities are employed, compared to 74.8% of persons without disabilities. And where else should EU start if not with itself?)
• Education, with dire need to improve accessibility of the Erasmus programmes, of trainings – and of the infamously non-inclusive EU schools.
• Accessibility of information and procedures.

The EU can and should be a leader in inclusive, accessible practice.

The next disability strategy is as good an opportunity as any to start.

First published on LinkedIn 1 July 2020.