On Monday, the UCLG and the World Blind Union (WBU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to solidify and enhance the partnership between the two organisations. They will use the partnership to focus on the “how” of accessibility, striving to translate countries’ commitments into tangible improvements in cities. “UCLG is committed to promoting inclusion, accessibility and universal design, and it is through partnerships with organisations like the WBU that we will translate our commitments into action”, said Emilia Saiz, UCLG Secretary General.
The partnership of UCLG and members of WBU will work on ensuring the active and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in the design and implementation of urban policies, programmes and services, and the vital role of local and regional governments in removing barriers to inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities. “We are thrilled to sign this MoU with UCLG and believe that it represents an important step towards addressing accessibility barriers and ensuring inclusion of persons with disabilities in cities and communities around the globe”, said Marc Workman, CEO of the World Blind Union.
In addition to the expected improved exchange of information and best practices as well as the establishment of joint advocacy efforts and projects, the UCLG and the WBU will leverage their respective mandates and strengths to promote the rights of persons with disabilities in urban development. They will also support the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The WBU is a founding member of the International Disability Alliance and the leading global voice for an estimated 253 million persons worldwide who are blind or partially sighted. Its members consist of over 250 organisations in more than 190 countries.