Since June 2024, Ukraine and Moldova have begun accession negotiations with the European Union (EU). Joining the EU is a complex process that requires strong commitment from both government and civil society. For success, Ukraine and Moldova must:
- Meet the Copenhagen criteria.
- Fulfill obligations under the Association Agreements (AA/DCFTA).
- Follow recommendations in the ‘Enlargement Package.’
A key condition for EU membership is the respect and advancement of human rights, particularly the rights of persons with disabilities. This includes:
- Deinstitutionalisation
- Ensuring accessibility to infrastructure, information, and services
- Promoting inclusive education
- Reforming the disability assessment model
While accession negotiations are primarily intergovernmental, civil society participation is increasingly vital. Civil society organisations (CSOs), including organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), can contribute directly by drafting laws and strategies or indirectly by implementing projects that help governments meet their obligations in the disability sector.
This guidance summarises key findings from the report ‘Disability-Inclusive Accession Process to the European Union: The case of Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia’
The guide was developed under the Ukraine (Phase 2) project with funding from CBM.
Download the Guidance
- The EU Accession Process: Guidance for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (Word document)
- The EU Accession Process: Guidance for Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (PDF document)