May 5 – European Independent Living Day: IUDPO Members Participate in Berlin March

Members of the International Union of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (IUDPO) participated in a public march in Berlin on May 5, marking the European Independent Living Day. The event brought together disability rights advocates and organizations from across Europe to highlight the urgent need for accessibility and inclusion.

The march was held under the key messages “Accessibility Now” and “Democracy Needs Inclusion,” emphasizing that equal participation of persons with disabilities is essential for a truly democratic society.

The International Union of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (IUDPO) is a regional association uniting national disability organizations from Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Eastern Europe. The union works to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, supports civil society initiatives, and promotes international cooperation. One of its key priorities is the full implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) across the region.

Participation in such international events highlights the importance of collaboration and strengthens the collective voice advocating for independent living and inclusive societies.