WBU & UCLG Policy Brief on Localization as the solution to the Accessibility Crisis

July 12, 2023 12:54 am Published by Fridah Mlemwa

The World Blind Union (WBU) and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) in collaboration with UN-Habitat, the
International Disability Alliance, the GAP PCG Older Persons Constituency Group and the Cities for All Network, have developed a policy brief – Localization to Solve the Accessibility Crisis; Recommendations to States Parties for Immediate Action – to solve the accessibility crisis.

Accessibility is an internationally recognized human right and a precondition for inclusion and participation in society. In the present context of rapid urbanization, the proliferation of accessibility barriers has become a pressing concern, further exacerbating social exclusion and deepening inequalities within urban communities.

There is an urgent need to accelerate the implementation of comprehensive accessibility measures across physical environments, transportation, information, and communication technologies in line with CRPD Article 9. Further urgent actions are needed to support progress towards the realization of SDG11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities, which is key to achieve inclusive
urban environments and a crucial link to integrate accessibility and inclusion across all other SDGs.

The policy brief, Localization to Solve the Accessibility Crisis; Recommendations to States Parties for Immediate Action, main recommendations are:

Stress the vital role of local and regional governments (LRGs), persons with disabilities, older persons and their representative organisations in achieving accessible and inclusive infrastructure and services for all across the urban-rural continuum.
Provide key recommendations for national governments and LRGs to collaborate in fostering localization and removing accessibility barriers for all in line with the CRPD and the global agendas.

READ THE FULL POLICY HERE: Localization report