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UN CONVENTION CONFERENCE: 2 EDF EXECUTIVE MEMBERS AT THE UN DISABILITY COMMITTEE2 September 2010 /// All 146 countries who signed the UN Convention on the rights of persons with disabilities are meeting once a year to exchange views on how to put it into practice. The 3rd Conference of State Parties since the Convention entered into force in 2008 is held in New-York from 1-3 September 2010. EDF is proud to announce that 2 of its executive members are now part of the Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
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EUROPE WILL AWARD ITS MOST ACCESSIBLE CITY ON THE DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES10 August 2010 /// Building and thinking accessible cities for everyone is a crucial condition to improve life of persons with disabilities. The European Commission has just launched the Access City Award to grant the most accessible city in Europe. Before checking if your city is really accessible, it is important to understand why accessibility is necessary for everyone.
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HUMAN RIGHTS: WHAT IS THE EURO OMBUDSMAN FOR?4 August 2010 /// The European Disability Movement met the European Ombudsman to make sure rights of persons with disabilities will be better protected in Europe. Since 1995, the Ombudsman has to investigate complaints about the administration of the EU institutions. How does that work? Can he really improve the life of persons with disabilities in Europe?
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FROM SPAIN TO BELGIUM: THE DISABILITY INTERGROUP EXPLORES THE JOB YET TO BE DONE29 July 2010 /// In the whilst of latest European warm wave, slightly before the European Parliament summer break, the Disability Intergroup held two meetings. Check our debrief and read everything you need to know
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PLANE + TRAIN: YOUR PASSENGER RIGHTS AT HAND15 July 2010 /// You will probably take a summer break and travel by plane or by train to reach you destination. The European Commission launched an information campaign to make sure you know your rights as a passenger. It has to be the right time to know more about the rights of passengers with disabilities and check the video about passengers with reduced mobility
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THE PARLIAMENT IMPROVES THE JOURNEY OF 65 MILLION PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES6 July 2009 /// Freedom of movement for all citizens is guaranteed by the Treaty of the European Union. Too many barriers prevent persons with disabilities from using existing transport networks. Today, the European Parliament approved two important proposals on passenger rights including specific rights for passengers with disabilities travelling by bus and by boat. The question is how passengers with disabilities will benefit from such regulations
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TOURISM: IS EUROPE AN ACCESSIBLE DESTINATION?5 July 2010 /// Although summer time is the high season for tourism, inaccessible transport and tourism services represent a barrier to freedom of movement. The European Commission has just adopted a communication on tourism which proposes to include better persons with disabilities: A perfect opportunity for the disability movement to remind how to guarantee freedom of movement in Europe
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WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES: EDF IS REPRESENTED AT THE EUROPEAN WOMEN LOBBY 1 July 2010 /// Women with disabilities face barriers and discrimination in society, even more than men with disabilities. It is a priority for the disability movement to tackle this double discrimination. The representation of the European Disability Forum at the European Women Lobby is crucial as it will ensure that disability is further mainstreamed in the gender equality policies
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EDF IN THE SAME BOAT WITH THE SPANISH AND BELGIAN PRESIDENCIES TO PUSH FORWARD RIGHTS OF EUROPEAN CITIZENS WITH DISABILITIES23 June 2010 /// The Disability Intergroup of the European Parliament co-organized, with the Spanish Presidency, a conference on the achievements of the Presidency leaving office, and on the challenges ahead for the incoming Belgian Presidency
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EUROPE 2020: THE MISSED OPPORTUNITY TO DO JUSTICE TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES18 June 2010 /// European leaders meeting in Brussels on 17 June adopted Europe 2020, the new 10-year strategy for jobs and growth. In the midst of the worst economic crisis in decades, Member States have not understood the message of persons with disabilities united behind the proposition of a Disability Pact. The European Council conclusions do not recognise persons with disabilities and the part they can play in achieving the targets of Europe 2020.
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SUMMER SUMMIT: THE DISABILITY MOVEMENT URGES THE MEMBERS STATES TO ADOPT THE DISABILITY PACT IN EUROPE 2020 STRATEGY16 June 2010 /// On 17-18 June, the EU heads of states and governments are deciding important elements of Europe 2020 Strategy during the EU summit. Disability leaders urge member states to include 65 million persons with disabilities in the sustainable growth and jobs strategy for the next decade
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FACE TO FACE WITH VIVIANE REDING: READY TO TAKE NEXT STEPS ON THE UN CONVENTION10 June 2010 /// We keep meeting high level decision-makers to ensure that persons with disabilities are taken onboard of the EU strategy for the next decade. On8 June, Yannis Vardakastanis, President of the European Disability Forum (EDF), and Carlotta Besozzi, EDF Director, spoke with Viviane Reding, Vice President of the European Commission, who is responsible for Justice, Fundamental Rights and Citizenship.
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DISABILITY AND EUROPE 2020: THE MEMBERS STATES SET UP THE FRAME BUT STILL NEED TO DRAW THE PICTURE09 June 2010 /// The European social affairs Ministers met 7-8 June in Luxembourg and adopted a resolution on the new European disability framework. Although the Council is calling for the inclusion of persons with disabilities by mainstreaming disability issues, EDF urges the Ministers to define clear indications, targets and commitments to concretely improve the life of 65 millions Europeans with disabilities.
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DIGITAL AGENDA: EDF WELCOMES THE PLAN09 June 2010 /// The 'Digital Agenda' for the next five years was published in May by the European Commission straight after Parliament resolution and the Granada Ministerial Declaration. The European disability movement welcome such a disability-proofed Digital Agenda for Europe. Let’s meet in 2015 to make sure ICT users with disabilities will benefit the plan. Read everythging you want to know
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WHY IS THE DISABILITY PACT NECESSARY?31 May 2010 /// The European institutions are about to adopt the growth strategy for the next 10 years and persons with disabilities are not yet part of the plan. Find out why it is crucial to involve us in the strategy. How Europe need to improve our life? Why Europe will benefit from our involvement?
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DISABILITY ON TOP OF THE AGENDA: EUROPEAN SOCIAL MINISTERS STEPPED UP THE TIMID CHANGE IN DISABILITY POLICIES20 May 2010 /// 25 EU members States were represented at the informal meeting of Ministers on Disability in Zaragoza, where leaders of the European disability movement were keynote speakers together with the Minster of Health and Social affairs, Mrs Trinidad Jimenez and the vice President of the European Commission, Mrs Viviane Reding
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ACTION TIME: THE DISABILITY MOVEMENT URGES THE EU TO WALK THE TALK NOWMadrid, 09 May 2010 /// The 14th Annual General Assembly of the European Disability Forum (EDF) was marked by the adoption of the emergency resolution on the economic crisis in Europe and the need to adopt long term policies, in particular the adoption of the Disability Pact as part of the Europe 2020 strategy.
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EDF GENERAL ASSEMBLY: QUEEN SOFIA OF SPAIN RECEIVES THE DISABILITY MOVEMENT7 May 2010 /// In the eve of the 14th Annual General Assembly of the European Disability Forum, leaders of the disability movement met Reina Sofia in the Zarzuela Palace in Madrid.
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FACE TO FACE WITH COMMISSIONER ANDOR: THE DISABILITY PACT IS NECESSARY6 May 2010 /// The European Disability Forum is meeting all decision makers to ensure disability will be included in the European Union strategy for the next decade. Today, EDF met Commissioner Andor.
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CITIZENS’ INITIATIVE: THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT URGES THE COMMISSION TO ANSWER 1 364 984 SIGNATURES ON THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES27 April 2010 /// In case you don’t remember the 1 million4disability campaign, 1 364 984 citizens are still waiting for an answer from the EU institutions. The European Parliament called yesterday for concrete and adequate actions from the European Commission.
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FACE TO FACE WITH VAN ROMPUY: THE DISABILITY PACT GETS THE EU PRESIDENT’S ATTENTION16 April 2010 /// The European Disability Forum EDF, the voice of 65 million European citizens with disabilities, met the President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy to ensure that the strategy Europe 2020 will include the Disability Pact in its flagship priorities.
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FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT: PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES WANT TO BOOK A TRAIN TICKET LIKE EVERYONE ELSE01 April 2010 /// The European disability movement believes that transport should remain accessible to all citizens: EDF responds to the consultation by the European Railways Agency on reservation obligations and information for rail passengers (TAP TSI)
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POST MARCH SUMMIT: DISABILITY MUST BE PART OF THE EUROPEAN STRATEGY FOR THE NEXT DECADE26 March 2010 /// The representative voice of 65 million European citizens with disabilities calls on heads of states and governments of the European Union to recognise the importance of equalising opportunities for persons with disabilities. This demand comes after the summit of EU leaders in Brussels on 25 and 26 March where Europe 2020, the blueprint for economic and social development in the EU in the next decade, was discussed.
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MEP’S URGE FOR DISABILITY TO BE PART OF EUROPE 2020 – ADOPTING THE DISABILITY PACT AS THE WAY FORWARD25 March 2010 /// Straight before the spring European Council, Members of the European Parliament called on Commissioner Andor and the Spanish Presidency to endorse the Disability Pact thereby including 65 million Europeans with disabilities in the growth strategy for the next decade.
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A BATTLE THAT WE CAN WIN: DISABILITY PACT TO SAVE EUROPE 202021 March 2010 /// EDF board of directors, met in Thessaloniki, Greece and adopted the Disability Pact declaration to ensure that the strategy EUROPE 2020, to be embraced by the European Council next week, will include the Disability Pact as one of its flagship priorities.
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THE EUROPEAN ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL COMMITTEE CALLS FOR A DISABILITY PACT!18 March 2010 /// Wednesday 17 March the European Economic and Social Committee approved unanimously (151 votes in favour and 3 abstentions) an exploratory option on “people with disabilities: employment and accessibility by stages for people with disabilities in the EU. Post Lisbon 2010 strategy”.
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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES HAVE TO BE INCLUDED IN THE EU GENDER POLICIES08 March 2010/// Women with disabilities face barriers and discrimination in society, even more than men with disabilities and gender equality has become an explicit priority for the policy work of EDF. The first week of March, EDF participated to the UN discussion on the key challenges gender policies. The 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day is the opportunity to understand why it is crucial to mainstream disability in the EU gender policies
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EUROPE 2020: THE DISABILITY PACT MUST BE THE 8th FLAGSHIP INITIATIVE03 March 2010 /// José Manuel Barroso, president of the European Commission, has unveiled the long-awaited 10-year plan: the Europe 2020 Strategy. EDF and MEP Adam Kósá consider it is crucial to establish the Disability Pact as the 8th key flagship initiative of the Europe 2020 strategy
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EUROPE 2020: EDF AND ADAM KOSA WRITE TO J.M. BARROSO AND H. VAN ROMPUY26 February 2010 /// On the first week of March, Commissioners are drafting a proposition of Europe 2020, the strategy which will define the EU priorities for the coming decade. In preparation for these crucial negociations, EDF would like to be sure decision makers hear the voice of 65 million persons with disabilities in Europe. Read our open letter we sent to all Commissioners
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ERASMUS: EXCHANGEABILITY GOES FURTHER TO MAKE THE YEAR ABROAD ACCESSIBLE FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES25 February 2010 /// ExchangeAbility is co-operation project of EDF, Youth Agora and Erasmus Student Network (ESN). The objective is to make ESN association accessible for students with disabilities. The effect would be to improve the accessibility of Erasmus students with disabilities when they are abroad, giving them the opportunity to be a part of European intercultural dialogue.
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EU ACCESSION TO THE UN CONVENTION: A GREAT ADVANCE STOPPED IN ITS TRACKS18 February 2010 /// EDF participates in the public hearing organised in Brussels by the European Parliament on 22 February to discuss the EU accession to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. European Voice publishes today an article signed by EDF President Yannis Vardakastanis and Chairperson of the European Parliament Subcommittee on Human Rights Heidi Hautala to expressing a concern that millions of Europeans may have to wait years before they benefit from the EU's ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of persons with disabilities.
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DISABILITY PACT: HIGH COMMITMENT FROM ROMANIAN MINISTER15 February 2010 /// Yannis Vardakastannis, President of EDF, met Mihail Seitan, Romanian Minister of Labor, Family and Social Protection in Bucharest last week. The Disability Pact was presented and entirely supported by Romanian Minister.
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MIND THE GAP: EU 2020 STRATEGY AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES10 February 2010 /// On February 11 in Brussels, Heads of States and Government are discussing the EU 2020 Strategy, which will define the EU priorities for the coming decade. In preparation for these crucial negociations, we would like to be sure decision makers hear the voice of 65 million persons with disabilities in Europe. Read our open letter we sent to all Heads of State, download it, translate it and send it!
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EUROPEAN 112 DAY: ONE COMMON EMERGENCY NUMBER IN EUROPE SOON ACCESSIBLE TO ALL10 February 2010 /// 11th February 2010 marks the second edition of the European 112 Day. The emergency number 112 is used to contact emergency services free of charge and is common to all 27 countries of the European Union. Persons with disabilities support the 112 Foundation and collaborate to reach a totally accessible emergency number soon.
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THE DISABILITY PACT: "A SUITABLE FRAMEWORK FOR EUROPEAN POLICIES"5 February 2009 /// In its response adressed to the European Commission's Public consultation on the preparation of the new EU Disability Strategy 2010-2020, COFACE (The Confederation of Family Organisations in the European Union) expressed its support to the proposal for the EDF Disability Pact.
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NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US: THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT DRIVES FORWARD DISABILITY RIGHTS29 January 2010 /// On 27 January 2009, the renewed Disability Intergroup of the European Parliament and the European Disability Forum toasted the New Year in Brussels at a very well-attended event. The new President of the Intergroup - for the first time a person with a disability himself, - and the disability movement presented the Disability Pact to a hundred of activists and 20 MEPs from various political groups and nationalities.
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ROMANIA IS READY TO MOVE FORWARD ON THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES18 January 2010 /// Last Friday, Emil Boc, Prime Minister of Romania received the European Disability Forum to exchange views on how to reinforce the participation of persons with disabilities and their representative organisations in the decision-making process at the national level.
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HUNGARIAN MEP ADAM KOSA IS THE NEW PRESIDENT OF THE DISABILITY INTERGROUP16 December 2009 /// Hungarian MEP Adam Kosa is the new President of the Disability Intergroup at the European Parliament
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HOW CAN EUROPE IMPROVE THE JOURNEY OF 65 MILLION CITIZENS?15 December 2009 /// On 17th December, the European Council of Ministers on land transport will decide about the scope of the bus passenger rights regulation. Accessible transport is a vital condition for the implementation of the free movement within borders for European residents with disabilities. 2 recent stories underline how crucial this regulation is for persons with disabilities.
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HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 200910 December 2009 /// Read the statement by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: Navi Pillay
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EUROPE FREE OF BARRIERS: EXCHANGEABILITY MAKES YOUR STUDIES ABROAD MORE ACCESSIBLE10 December 2010 /// Going abroad for a period of time is not always easy for young people, especially if it is the first time away. It is even more difficult for young persons with disabilities as they face inaccessible environment or disability-related stereotypes. This is exactly what the ExchangeAbility project wants to tackle.
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YOUNG PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES COMMENT THE EUROPEAN STRATEGY FOR THE NEXT 10 YEARS8 December 2009 /// Following last year public consultation of future EU youth the European Commission adopted -An EU strategy for youth- addressing which actions Europe should take in the next 10 years with regards to youth. Young persons with disabilities request more mainstreaming and publish a position paper
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“MY REAL LIFE BEGAN WHEN I WAS 30 YEARS OLD, THE DAY I LEFT THE INSTITUTION TO LIVE MY OWN LIFE!"4 December 2009 /// Representatives from the disability movement and decision-makers focused on Creating conditions for independent living during the conference organised for the European Day of persons with disabilities. The Conference's goal was to contribute to a better understanding of issues related to independent living, in particular economic autonomy, community services and assistive technologies.
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CELEBRATE THE INTERNATIONAL DAY THROUGHOUT EUROPE3 December 2009 /// Members from the European Disability Forum celebrated the international day of persons with disabilities. Check what happened all around Europe
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3 DECEMBER: EUROPE CELEBRATES THE DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES1 December 2009 /// To mark the international Day of People with Disabilities, in line with the EU Disability Action Plan 2003-2010, Europe focus on Independant living. Read the disability movement key proposals and check how persons with disabilities celebrate all-around Europe.
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HUMAN RIGHTS: HISTORIC RATIFICATION BY THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY26 November 2009 /// The European Community has just ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Unprecedented step forward for the first human rights treaty ratified in the history of Europe and a great signal sent to all EU Members States.
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VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: FORCED STERILIZATION OF WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES IS A REALITY IN EUROPE25 November 2009 /// In the light of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the European Disability Forum (EDF) joins the struggle against all forms of gender violence, to which thousands of women in the European Union and worldwide fall victim. All forms of sterilization without full and informed consent must be seen as violence.
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TELECOMS PACKAGE: A POSITIVE EUROPEAN LEGISLATION ENTERING INTO FORCE25 November 2009 /// On 24 November, the European Parliament approved the Telecoms Package: a happy end to EDF 3 years fight to the access to the information society. Check why this final step might improve the life of 65 million persons with disabilities in Europe.
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NOTEWORTHY SUCCESS FOR YOUNG LEADERSHIP TALENT WITH DISABILITY12 November 2009 /// Among the 44 candidates from 15 European countries, Giovanni Padovani, member of EDF Youth Committee, was announced as the winner of the AtmosphEUROPA contest in the official ceremony hosted by the European Parliament early November.
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EMPLOYMENT AND DISABILITY: EDF URGES THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION TO STRUGGLE STRONGER AGAINST DISCRIMINATION12 November 2009 /// EDF participated at the EU-US Seminar on Employment of persons with disabilities in early November in Brussels. Nine years after the legislation on protection from discrimination in the field of employment was adopted and while the EU is working out a revamped Lisbon Strategy, it sounds like the right time to assess the progress made with the legislation.
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eUNION 2015: EDF AND ANEC WANT NOBODY EXCLUDED FROM THE INFORMATION SOCIETY09 november 2009 /// The conference Visby Agenda - creating impact for an eUnion 2015 - aims at identifying which ICT policy issues should be included in an ICT policy agenda for Europe to 2015. ANEC and EDF call for the next European Union Information Society policy to focus on the need to ensure participation for all in the future knowledge society.
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UN CONVENTION - EXPERTS DEBATE INNOVATIVE IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING MECHANISMS29 October 2009 /// The European Disability Forum (EDF) and the European Consortium of Foundations on Human Rights and Disability (EFC) jointly organised a seminar on the National Implementing and Monitoring Bodies described in Article 33 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The seminar explored and analyzed how EU member States and EU Institutions envisage to fulfill their obligations.
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A DISABILITY PACT FOR EUROPE: THE FUTURE CANNOT WAIT19 October 2009 /// The European Disability Forum, the voice of 65 million European citizens with disabilities, met in the Swedish capital to adopt the proposal for the European Disability Pact.
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DISABILITY MOVEMENT LEADERS ARE MEETING IN STOCKHOLM: UN CONVENTION AND DISABILITY PACT ON TOP OF THE AGENDA17 October 2009 /// ''I expect the Swedish presidency of the European Union to ratify the UN Convention in the next months'' said today Ingrid Burman, spokesperson of the Swedish Disability Federation when adressing the disability movement leaders from Europe.
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FIRST READING ON SEA PASSENGERS REGULATION: THE GOOD NEWS AND THE BAD NEWS12 October 2009 /// Last Friday 9 October, Ministers discussed the proposal for a regulation on maritime and inland waterway passenger rights of the European Parliament in view of a political agreement. If the Council finally requires accessible formats on board, Ministers still accept the possibility to refuse a person with a disability to travel for reasons of health and safety. EDF comments on what is acceptable and what is not.
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UN CONVENTION: SEMINAR ON NATIONAL IMPLEMENTATION IN OCTOBER07 October 2009 /// EDF and the European Consortium of Foundations on Human Rights and Disability organise a joint seminar on the National Implementing and Monitoring Bodies described in Article 33 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This seminar will take place on 28 October 2009 at the European Economic and Social Committee in Brussels. Check the deadline for registration here.
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HUNGARY: REVOLUTIONARY CHANGES IN THE RULES OF LEGAL CAPACITY06 October 2009 /// In September 2009, the Hungarian Parliament voted to pass the new Civil Code whose regulation on legal capacity brings fundamental changes to the lives of people with intellectual disabilities.
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COUNCIL OF EUROPE: “PERSONS WITH MENTAL DISABILITIES SHOULD NOT BE DEPRIVED OF THEIR HUMAN RIGHTS” SAYS COMMISSIONER HAMMARBERG05 October 2009 /// EDF represented the persons with disabilities at the Coordination Forum for the the Council of Europe Disability Action Plan 2006 - 2015. “Individuals with mental health or intellectual disabilities have been treated as non-persons whose decisions are meaningless” said Thomas Hammarberg, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights.
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ALL EYES ON THE IRISH REFERENDUM01 October 2009 /// A 'Yes' vote will keep the European Union on track. But why is the Lisbon Treaty good for persons with disabilities?
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REPORT: HOW CAN YOUR COUNTRY IMPLEMENT THE RIGHT TO LIVE IN THE COMMUNITY?29 September 2009 /// The European Coalition for Community Living published its report: Focus Report on Article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which sets out the key steps for implementing the right to live in the community.
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OUR FINAL GUIDELINES FOR THE NEXT COMMISSION: OPEN LETTER TO JOSÉ MANUEL BARROSO14 September 2009 /// The European Parliment will be voting this week on Mr Barroso's candidacy for President of the European Commission. We publish our demands to the President of the European Commission and we urge the Members of Parliament to use the opportunity of this vote to make it clear to Mr Barroso that the next Commission needs to take into account the needs and aspirations of all Europeans, particularly those with disabilities and their families.
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INDEPENDENT LIVING: 400 WHEELCHAIR USERS RECEIVED BY THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT FOR THE FREEDOM DRIVE 200909 September 2009 /// On the 16th of September 400 people from over 21 countries will ride Strasbourg’s streets with their wheelchairs and guide dogs to reach the European Parliament. The goal of this Freedom Drive is to hand over the ENIL demands of Independent Living to Jerzy Buzek, President of the European Parliament. EDF support the Freedom Drive.
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UNITED NATIONS: THE EUROPEAN DISABILITY FORUM IS IN NEW YORK1 September 2009 /// Second session of the Conference of States Parties of The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will be held 2 to 4 September 2009 in New York with the European Disability Forum.
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SOUTH AFRICAN DISABILITY RIGHTS LEADER NAMED UNITED NATIONS SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR OF COMMISSION FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT26 August 2009 /// Shuaib Chalklen of South Africa has been appointed the Special Rapporteur on Disability of the Commission for Social Development for the period 2009-2011.
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HISTORICAL STEP AHEAD FOR THE RIGHTS OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES31 July 2009 /// President Obama keeps its electoral promises and just signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Another step forward for the first Human Rights Treaty adopted in almost 20 years and a great signal for its ratification by all countries around the world.
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SOS: ACCESSIBILITY FOR EUROPEAN EMERGENCY NUMBER 11224 July 2009 /// Your life, your number: 6 months after 112 became the single emergency number in Europe, how about its accessibility to persons with disabilities?
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BELGIUM: THE LIFE OF HALF A MILLION PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IS ABOUT TO CHANGE10 July 2009 /// New step for the rights of persons with disabilities in Europe: Belgium has ratified the United Nations Convention on 2 July 2009. The European Disability Forum provides the latest updates.
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EUROPEAN STANDARDIZATION: A LONG STANDING RELATIONSHIP30 June 2009 /// One year after formal partnership, ANEC, the European consumer voice in standardization and EDF consolidate their strong success relationship.
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EURADE: FIRST COLLABORATIVE PROJECT FOR DISABILITY EQUALITY: ACADEMICS AND ORGANISATIONS ON THE WAY FORWARD TO SUCCESS26 June 2009 /// The European Disability Forum (EDF), and its partners -Leeds and Maastricht Universities- organised a seminar in June to identify next collaborative opportunities between Disabled People Organisations (DPOs) and academic researchers over the project European Research Agendas for Disability Equality (EuRADE)
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HOW CAN THE COUNCIL IMPROVE THE JOURNEY OF HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS CITIZENS?25 June 2009 /// The European Disability Forum (EDF) together with AGE, BEUC, ANEC, and EEB addressed all Ministers of Transport of European Union Member States its concerns about the proposals to narrow the scope of the bus passengers’ rights regulation. The regulation is under discussion today at the Council Working Group on Land Transport and a political agreement could possibly be reached during the Swedish Presidency starting 1 July.
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GET INVOLVED: 7 DAYS LEFT TO ANSWER THE QUESTIONNAIRE ON YOUTH PARTICIPATION23 June /// 7 days left only to answer the questionnaire on the participation of youth with disabilities within DPOs Deadline to contribution: 30 June 2009
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EURADE: DISCUSS THE RESULTS AND DEBATE NEXT PRIORITIES 16th JUNE IN BRUSSELS10 June 2009 /// Dissemination Seminar on the main results of the 'European Research Agendas for Disability Equality' project - 16th June 2009, Brussels, Belgium
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WHEN CAN PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES MAKE THEIR OWN DECISIONS?09 June 2009 /// The European Disability Forum (EDF) and the European Consortium of Foundations on Human Rights and Disability jointly organised a symposium on the legal capacity of persons with disabilities in light of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). All background documents, keynotes and seminar paper are now available.
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ÁDÁM KÓSA: FIRST DEAF PERSON ELECTED AS A MEMBER OF EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT08 June 2009 /// EDF is pleased for the first ever Deaf person and Sign Language user elected to the European Parliament. According to EUD website, Ádám Kósa won his seat in the European Parliament as his party FIDESZ secured 56.37% of the votes nationally in Hungary. Through that percentage of votes, FIDESZ won 14 seats for the European Parliament and Ádám Kósa was 12th in the list.
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DISABILITY VOTES COUNT: IT'S OUR CHOICE !05 June 2009 /// The European elections are taking place across 27 Member States until 7 June. EDF calls on every citizen to go to the polls and vote for the candidates who will design a Europe for all.
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UN CONVENTION SYMPOSIUM: THE NEW CONCEPT OF LEGAL CAPACITY29 May 2009 /// On 4 June, the European Foundation Centre and the European Disability Forum organise a joint symposium on “Legal capacity of persons with disabilities in light of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)”. Register and meet key people in the implementation of article 12.
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ACTION TIME: 1 WEEK BEFORE THE VOTE29 May 2009 /// The European Parliament Election will end next week. The European Disability Forum asks the right Questions for Europe on Euronews. Watch out the video and ask your question.
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ACCESSIBILITY: PASSENGERS RIGHTS STILL IN DANGER22 May 2009 /// In April Members of Parliament adopted in first reading the report on the rights of bus and coach, or travelling by sea and inland waterway passengers. Most of positive improvements have been reconfirmed, but EDF still highlights the danger of being denial bording for safety reason and the authorisation to exclude urban transport from the scope of the regulation.
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EDF AWARDED WITH HONOR TROPHY IN PARIS18 May 2009 /// On May 11th 2009, Yannis Vardakastanis, President of the European Disability Forum (EDF) was the guest of honor at the 5th Annual Award Ceremony of APAJH (Association for Disabled Youths and Adults).
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DISABILITY VOTES COUNT VIDEO15 May 2009 /// 3 weeks before the European elections, the European Disability Forum broadcasts its video campaign. Watch the new Disability votes count video available in two accessible formats
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GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN PICTURES14 May 2009 /// Watch out video and photos from our annual general assembly.
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THE FUTURE CANNOT WAIT: THE EUROPEAN MOVEMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES READY TO SET OFF FOR NEW CHALLENGES 12 May 2009 /// The 13th Annual General Assembly of the European Disability Forum (EDF), the representative organisation of 65 million persons with disabilities in Europe, gathered in Athens more than 200 participants from 30 national federations and 50 European disability NGOs to elect its leaders.
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WATCH OUR GENERAL ASSEMBLY ON THE INTERNET7 May 2009 /// On 9 and 10 May, the 2 days EDF Annual General Assembly are broadcast live from Athens on the Internet. Click here and join us !
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MATERNITY LEAVE DIRECTIVE POSTPONED FOR AFTER EP ELECTIONS 7 may 2009 /// The report of the MEP Edit Estrela on the revised Maternity leave directive was not voted at the European Parliament session in Strasbourg yesterday and will be referred back to the Women's Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) Committee.
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EDF WELCOMES THE VOTE OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT ON THE REVIEW OF THE TELECOMS PACKAGE7 May 2009 /// On 6 May, the European Parliament (EP) voted for its second reading on the review of the Telecoms Package. MEPs voted in favour of provisions regarding access to electronic communications for users with disabilities, which represents an improvement compared to the current legislation.
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DISABILITY VOICE AVAILABLE NOW6 May 2009 /// Everything you need to know about Disability in Europe is in Disability Voice. Download our 2nd issue.
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EDF DISCUSSES HOW TO INCREASE MOBILITY AT THE BARRIER-FREE EUROPE CONFERENCE04 May 2009 /// The Czech National Disability Council organized a Barrie-Free Europe conference on 20 and 21 April in Prague under the patronage of the Czech Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Mr. Petr Necas as part of the accompanying programme of the Czech Presidency.
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LAST DISABILITY INTERGROUP MEETING: A LOOK FORWARD4 May 2009 /// The last Disability Intergroup meeting of the 6th legislative period of the European Parliament was held in Brussels on 28 April with participation of EDF President Yannis Vardakastanis and Head of the Disability Unit of the European Commission Johan Ten Geuzendam.
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EDF ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY GOES LIVE4 May 2009 /// EDF Annual general Assembly will be attended by more than 200 members this week end in Athens. The 2 days will be broadcasted live from Athens on the Internet. Check the programme !
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EDF WELCOMES EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT'S APPROVAL OF THE CONCLUSION OF THE UN CONVENTION BY THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITY 30 April 2009 /// On 23 April, the European Parliament debated in plenary the conclusion of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by the European Community.
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EDF DEVELOPS DIALOGUE WITH THE CIVIL SOCIETY 29 Avril 2009 /// The “Manifesto for a genuine European civil dialogue” has been launched on 14 April within the “Civil society day”. EDF support this step forward in the development of the dialogue between civil society stakeholders and the European Institutions.
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GET INVOLVED ! ANSWER THE QUESTIONNAIRE ON THE PARTICIPATION OF YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES24 April // The questionnaire on youth participation is now available in English, French, German, Spanich, Italian and also in an easy-to-read format!! Please answer before 30 June 2009
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FEMM VOTED AMENDMENTS TO MATERNITY LEAVE DIRECTIVE 17 April 2009 /// The European Parliament Women's Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM) Committee voted 136 amendments to the proposal for a revised Maternity leave directive on 16 April.
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EDF KEEPS TRACK OF BUS AND WATER PASSENGERS14 April 2009 /// Persons with disabilities still have to face a lack of accessibility and of necessary assistance in domestic or international bus and maritime transportation. As the European Parliament will vote in plenary on 23 April, you can download EDF position paper here.
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DESIGN THE INCLUSIVE URBAN TRANSPORT: CALL FOR ACTION10 April 2009 /// The MEDIATE project kicked off on 17 and 18 March with a conference in Brussels. MEDIATE’s aim is to contribute to the development of inclusive urban transport systems. Send us your best practices and contribute to tomorrow's inclusive society.
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LAST MEETING OF THE DISABILITY INTERGROUP BEFORE THE JUNE ELECTION07 April 2009 /// The Disability Intergroup and the European Disability Forum are pleased to invite you to its last meeting of this parliamentary term before the June election.
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EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT: A STEP FORWARD FOR A EUROPE WITHOUT DISCRIMINATION03 April 2009 /// Last Thursday, the European Parliament voted in favour of the key anti-discrimination Directive. The disability movement welcomes such a strong signal sent to the EU Members States to adopt the equal treatment legislation.
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CRUCIAL VOTE FOR DISABILITY RIGHTS1 April 2009 /// On 2 April, Members of European Parliament vote their report on the fundamental equal treatment directive
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ACCESSIBILITY IN CROSS-BORDER HEALTH CARE: SUPPORT FROM EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT COMMITTEE1 April 2009 /// On 31 march, the European Parliament Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety voted on amendments to a proposal from the European Commission for a directive dealing with patients’ rights in cross-border health care.
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MEETING ON TOP: DISABILITY MOVEMENT WORLD LEADERS IN ATHENS27 March 2009 /// EDF and the National Confederation of the Disable People of Greece organise a significant meeting of the International Disability Alliance in Athens, Greece 27 and 28 March
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EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT: SUSPENSE AND NEGOTIATION FOR NON-DISCRIMINATION24 March 2009 /// On 16 March, the European Parliament Civil Liberties Committees voted on the draft report on the proposal for the non-discrimination directive
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YOUTH: EDF EXPLORES NEW WAYS FOR E- PARTICIPATION20 March 2009 /// From 16 to 18 March 200, the Council of Europe (CoE) Directorate for Youth and Sports with the support of the European Youth Forum gathered around 40 participants from all over Europe to discuss youth e-participation.
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YOUR PhD AT MAASTRICHT UNIVERSITY: EUROPEAN DISABILITY LAW20 March 2009 /// The Faculty of Law at Maastricht University hosts one of the leading Departments of European Law in Europe, and offers the possibility for researchers to carry out research leading to a Ph.D
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CZECH EU PRESIDENCY: “EUROPE WITHOUT BARRIERS ALSO MEANS FREEDOM OVER PHYSICAL AND ATTITUDE FRONTIERS"28 Feb 2009 /// “The government of Czech Republic will ratify the United Nation Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the next months”, said today Minister of the Czech Government and Chairman of the Legislative Council, Pavel Svoboda, when addressing the disability movement leaders from EU-27.
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EUROPEAN DAY OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: FINAL REPORT AVAILABLE24 Feb 2009 /// Download the final report to know everything about what happened last 1 and 2 December 2008 in Brussels
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COMMISSION SHIES AWAY FROM e-ACCESSIBILITY22 Feb 2009 /// EDF released its joint response with AGE and ANEC on the Commission’s Communication “Towards an accessible information society”
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INFORMATION SOCIETY: BETWEEN TODAY AND TOMORROW20 Feb 2009 /// In view of the second reading at the European parliament and Council about the review of the Telecoms Package, EDF would like to recall how accessible e-communications are crucial for disabled users to benefit from the Information Society on an equal basis with their non-disabled peer. For our complete position, please download to the EDF Position on the review of the Telecoms Package.
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EMERGENCY CALL ACCESSIBILITY: BRINGING OUT THE BEST10 Feb 2006 /// EDF Officer at the 112 Awards Ceremony
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EuRADE OPENS PARLIAMENTARIES DOORSDisability equality research debated at the European Parliament
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TOP PRIORITIES FOR DISABLED PEOPLE IN FUTURE RESEARCH INITIATIVES
The European Disability Forum (EDF) is holding a briefing seminar on the results of the European Research Agendas for Disability Equality (EuRADE) Consultation Survey on Wednesday, 21 January 2009 at the European Parliament in Brussels.
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The European Disability Forum (EDF) is holding a briefing seminar on the results of the European Research Agendas for Disability Equality (EuRADE) Consultation Survey on Wednesday, 21 January 2009 at the European Parliament in Brussels.
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EDF VICE PRESIDENT PASSED AWAYBas Treffers was one of EDF key figures beyond EDF greatest successes. His great commitment and passion will continue to lead our work.
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PRESENTATIONS FROM THE 2008 EUROPEAN DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS CONFERENCE NOW ONLINE
The European Day of Disabled Persons conference took place on 1 and 2 December 2008 and addressed the theme : Acting locally for a society for all.
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The European Day of Disabled Persons conference took place on 1 and 2 December 2008 and addressed the theme : Acting locally for a society for all.
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EDF SUPPORTS THE W3C-WAI’s WEB CONTENT ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES 2.0 (WCAG 2.0)
WCAG 2.0 directly benefits users who have accessibility needs due to a disability
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WCAG 2.0 directly benefits users who have accessibility needs due to a disability
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PRESENTATIONS FROM CONFERENCE ON THE STRUCTURAL FUNDS 2007-2013 NOW ONLINE
EDF, CECODHAS and EAPN addressed the concerns around EU Cohesion Policy
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EDF, CECODHAS and EAPN addressed the concerns around EU Cohesion Policy
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CONFERENCE ON MOBILITY NEEDS OF DISABLED PERSONS TO BE HELD IN BRUSSELS
The conference “Driving Change” will bring together all key stakeholders
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The conference “Driving Change” will bring together all key stakeholders
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TWO PROPOSALS ON BUS AND MARITIME PASSENGER RIGHTS ADOPTED BY THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION
Both proposals include specific rights for passengers with disabilities
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Both proposals include specific rights for passengers with disabilities
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DISABILITY MOVEMENT LEADERS PUBLISHED MANIFESTO FOR 2009 EUROPEAN ELECTIONS
The manifesto calls on politicians to address disability and to assure equal access for disabled voters
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The manifesto calls on politicians to address disability and to assure equal access for disabled voters
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EUROPEAN DAY OF PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES CONFERENCE FOCUSES ON LOCAL ACTION
The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will be the key topic to be discussed
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The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities will be the key topic to be discussed
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EDF STATEMENT ON THE ECONOMIC CRISIS:DISABLED PEOPLE MUST NOT PAY FOR THE CRISIS
European disability movement leaders sent their demands to the EU from Paris
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European disability movement leaders sent their demands to the EU from Paris
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FIRST COMMITTEE OF EXPERTS ON DISABILITY RIGHTS CONVENTION ELECTED
The Committee will be in charge of monitoring the implementation of the CRPD
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The Committee will be in charge of monitoring the implementation of the CRPD
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DISABILITY INTERGROUP AND EDF HOST DISABILITY EXPERT MEETING ON NON-DISCRIMINATION DIRECTIVE
The meeting was attended by representatives of various stakeholders
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The meeting was attended by representatives of various stakeholders
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EDF CO-ORGANISES CONFERENCE “STRUCTURAL FUNDS 2007-2013, A REAL STEP FORWARD FOR SOCIAL EUROPE?”
The conference will take place on 8 December 2008
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The conference will take place on 8 December 2008
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COUNCIL OF EUROPE RECOMMENDS TO GOVERNMENTS TO ADDRESS NEEDS OF DISABLED PERSONS
Human Rights Commissioner published a “viewpoint” on the situation of disabled persons
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Human Rights Commissioner published a “viewpoint” on the situation of disabled persons
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DISABILITY VOICE.EU RELEASED
Download the first issue of EDF's new external communication tool
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Download the first issue of EDF's new external communication tool
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EDF ANNUAL REPORT 2008 NOW ONLINE
Download latest EDF Annual Report in PDF format, in English and French version.
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Download latest EDF Annual Report in PDF format, in English and French version.
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EUROPEAN COMMISSION ADOPTS RATIFICATION PLAN ON UN CONVENTIONDownload the EDF position on the proposal for a Council decision on the ratification of the UN Disability Convention
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EDF RELEASES TOOLKIT ON NEW EU AUDIOVISUAL LEGISLATION
With its Toolkit, EDF wants to ensure accessibility of audiovisual media to persons with disabilities
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With its Toolkit, EDF wants to ensure accessibility of audiovisual media to persons with disabilities
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NEW REGULATION OPENS AIR SPACE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
The Regulation is also a way of rehabilitation of our dignity, said EDF President Mr. Yannis Vardakastanis
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The Regulation is also a way of rehabilitation of our dignity, said EDF President Mr. Yannis Vardakastanis
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NEW NON DISCRIMINATION DIRECTIVE PROPOSAL FAILS TO PROTECT DISABLED PEOPLE
The proposed directive is unclear and leaves room for interpretation, said EDF President
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The proposed directive is unclear and leaves room for interpretation, said EDF President
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ECJ: DISCRIMINATION BY ASSOCIATION ON THE GROUND OF DISABILITY IS VIOLATION OF THE EMPLOYMENT DIREACTIVE
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UN ANNOUNCED DISABILITY RIGHTS CONVENTION AS 2008 THEME OF 3rd DECEMBER
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol entered into force in May 2008
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The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol entered into force in May 2008
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SPIDLA: PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES EXPECT ACTION. WE MUST MEET THIS CHALLENGE!
The EU and EFTA ministers reinforced the commitment to cooperation in the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
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The EU and EFTA ministers reinforced the commitment to cooperation in the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
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UN CELEBRATES ENTRY INTO FORCE OF DISABILITY RIGHTS CONVENTION
EDF President Yannis Vardakastanis attended the ceremony
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EDF President Yannis Vardakastanis attended the ceremony
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READ EDF PROPOSAL SENT TO THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION FOR A DISABILITY SPECIFIC DIRECTIVE
Since 2001, the European Disability Forum lobbies the European Union for the adoption of a wide-reaching disability Directive. See EDF's proposal and arguments in favour of it.
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Since 2001, the European Disability Forum lobbies the European Union for the adoption of a wide-reaching disability Directive. See EDF's proposal and arguments in favour of it.
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OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION ON A EUROPEAN DISABILITY DIRECTIVE
Brussels, 21 April 2008 - Read the full letter...
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Brussels, 21 April 2008 - Read the full letter...
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EDF 10 YEARS PUBLICATION AVAILABLE
To mark its 10th anniversary EDF has produced a new publication about its struggle to advance disability rights in Europe during the last decade. Download the PDF version here.
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To mark its 10th anniversary EDF has produced a new publication about its struggle to advance disability rights in Europe during the last decade. Download the PDF version here.
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1.294.997 SIGNATURES DELIVERED TO THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION FOR THE PETITION 1MILLION4DISABILITY
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WE HAVE GOT THE MILLION SIGNATURES - Download the campaign press pack in English and French
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SUCCESFUL CITIZENS' GATHERING ON 4/10/07 FOR THE 1MILLION4DISABILITY CAMPAIGN
Disabled people and non-disabled people will travel to Brussels on 4 October 2007 to demonstrate for their rights. JOIN US!
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Disabled people and non-disabled people will travel to Brussels on 4 October 2007 to demonstrate for their rights. JOIN US!
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