European Accessibility Act proposed for 2012

The aim of the proposed European Accessibility Act, expected at the end of 2012, is to improve the accessibility of goods and services in the internal market and to optimise accessibility for persons with disabilities and the elderly. The act is the result of two important developments in Europe. The first is the ageing population, which implies an increase in the demand of accessible goods and services. The second is the ratification of the UNCRPD (UN convention on the rights of persons with disabilities) by the EU and its member states, implying clear obligations to improve accessibility.

 

Harmonising accessibility requirements would facilitate the social integration of persons with disabilities and the elderly and their mobility across member states, thereby also fostering the free movement principle.

 

Our working group barrier-free city for all has drafted a statement on the act with members of our mobility forum providing input. We will provide the European Commission with these city recommendations. The statement will be made available online shortly. 

 

Our horizontal working group, barrier-free city for all, was created to: learn and exchange ideas on interesting developments in European cities; and bring together a network of stakeholders to promote developments in the field of the barrier-free city for all, both conceptually and practically.