On the 5 and 6 June 2018, the European Disability Forum participated in the European Development Days (EDD) in Brussels. The European Development Day are the largest European Union gathering on international cooperation. It is organized by the European Commission, and this year it focused on the role of women, and the need for their full and equal participation and leadership in society.
It was a great occasion to network, share ideas, and get inspired by new partnerships and innovative solutions between civil society, institutional and political stakeholders around the world.
Marion Steff (SDGs Coordinator), Alexandre Bloxs (SDGs Policy Assistant) and Laurène Petit (Human Rights Intern) took part in the event. They promoted the inclusion of persons with disabilities in international cooperation.
Interesting projects
Bridging the gap project, where EDF is a partner participated in the EDD with a brainstorming lab organised in coordination with the EU Social Protection Systems Programme and the “Women with Disabilities Leadership Programme” of Light for the World. Speakers from Sudan, Tanzania and Ecuador presented different experiences where women with disabilities have become a driving force on sustainable development in their communities and local economies. The following video was also presented: “Women on the rise: No one left behind!”
It was also the opportunity to visit the #FightInequalities stand and learn more about the new global Fight Inequalities campaign launched by various civil society organisations. More information on the following website.
Lack of accessibility
While having put in place some accessibility measures, the event was not sufficiently accessible. We, together with other civil society organisations, are preparing an official complaint letter, so that fully accessibility can be a reality next year.