Members and Partners

In 1984, the World Blind Union had 60 member countries but the number rose to approximately 190 countries over the last 25 years, with over 500 organizations included in our membership. WBU ‘s membership consists of organizations from all six continents and is classified into different categories:

  1. National members (including “Grouped” and “Special” members);
  2. International members;
  3. Associate members;
  4. Honorary Life members​.

Members are listed under their region. The six WBU regions are: Africa, Asia, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and North America and the Caribbean. The membership lists for each region is available under the ‘Membership Categories​’ section or the ‘Contact Us‘ section.

This section provides information to organizations that are interested in being part of the World Blind Union.  Please click on the sidebar links to find out more information about: Membership Categories, the Application Process and how to become a member, Download an Application Form, and other relevant Information for Members. For additional information please contact the WBU office at: info@wbu.ngo​

Benefits of WBU Membership

There are many benefits to being involved with the World Blind Union. First and foremost is affiliation to the organization that is internationally recognized as the global voice representing the needs and views of blind and partially sighted persons at the global level. Some other specific benefits include:
  • To connect to the global movement of organizations of and for the blind;
  • To take part at regional and international events, such as General Assemblies;
  • To get involved in the work of the WBU;
  • To receive member-only publications and information;
  • To be listed in the WBU website and also have access to contact information about other members;
  • To have access to regional and international networks and training programs;
  • To have access to a wide network of organizations involved in the field of vision impairment and blindness;
  • To have access to tools and resources to support their own advocacy and organizational development efforts;
  • To share in advocacy efforts undertaken by the WBU at the international and regional levels. In particular, through these efforts, to be able to influence policies and programs within such bodies as the United Nations and its affiliated agencies and organizations;
To become part of a growing movement that is united and actively changing what it means to be blind!
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