"According to the latest data from the World Health Organization, approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide — or one in every six people — live with disabilities. This figure once again confirms that inclusive urban policies are a global priority," Chairperson of the Board of the State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan Aygun Aliyeva said during her speech at the session titled “Inclusive Cities and Independent Living for Persons with Disabilities” held within the framework of WUF13, APA reports.
She noted that the concept of an inclusive city is not limited only to physical infrastructure: “This concept also includes accessible transport systems, barrier-free public spaces, an information environment adapted for people with visual and hearing impairments, as well as equal access to digital services. Such an approach ultimately ensures the full and effective participation of all citizens in urban life.”
Aygun Aliyeva emphasized that Azerbaijan is also implementing a consistent and purposeful policy in this direction:
“In recent years, important steps have been taken to increase the accessibility of public infrastructure, make social services more inclusive, and adapt the urban environment to modern standards. The improvement of legislation related to the rights of persons with disabilities, the recognition of Azerbaijani sign language, as well as reforms implemented within the social protection system demonstrate the state’s systematic approach to this area,” she noted.
