By Dumisani Ndlovu
Germany has launched the Resilient and Inclusive City Hub, an initiative aimed at enhancing accessibility in urban areas for persons with disabilities ahead of the Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025.
The initiative was announced by Svenja Schulze, Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development, at the European Regional Disability Summit, highlighting Germany’s commitment to creating inclusive urban environments.
With over 1.3 billion individuals living with disabilities worldwide, many in cities, this initiative seeks to create urban environments that are inclusive and resilient, especially during crises. As part of the United Nations Global Disability Fund, the Hub will bring together international organizations, development banks, urban planners, and advocacy groups to improve urban accessibility.
The primary goal is to make public spaces more welcoming for everyone, particularly those with disabilities. By 2026, the initiative plans to implement pilot projects in five cities worldwide, aiming to enhance the lives of people with disabilities through better-designed buildings, roads, transport systems, warning systems, and services.
The GDS 2025, co-hosted by Germany, Jordan, and the International Disability Alliance (IDA), promises to be a pivotal moment in the disability rights movement. The summit aims to build on the momentum of the previous two GDS, amplifying its impact in advancing the rights and inclusion of all persons with disabilities through international cooperation ¹.
At the heart of the GDS 2025 is the principle of “Nothing about us without us.” Persons with disabilities will be at the center of the summit process and event, with their priorities and views taking center stage. The co-hosts are committed to strengthening Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and providing a platform for persons with disabilities to present their priorities and views directly to global leaders in Berlin ².
The GDS 2025 is more than just a summit – it’s a call to action for disability inclusion. Germany, Jordan, and IDA are committed to accelerating the momentum created by the previous two GDS and expanding global efforts for disability equality and meaningful engagement of persons with disabilities
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