European Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030

In 2021, the European Commission announced its new Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030. It sets out various commitments, initiatives and calls to action for Member States. The strategy contributes to the implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, which focuses on creating a fair labour market.

The strategy focuses on three main themes:

• EU rights (free movement of persons, particularly workers);
• Independent and autonomous living;
• Non-discrimination and equal opportunities.

There are seven key initiatives, and by the end of 2022, half of these will already have been fulfilled. In addition, numerous studies, research projects and guidelines have been promised to the Member States.

1. In the area of accessibility, the establishment of AccessibleEU is expected by the end of 2022. This is a centre that will ensure coherence in ‘accessibility policy’.
2. In the area of free movement, the roll-out of the European Disability Card is expected in 2023. This card will ensure recognition of the status of a person with a disability across all Member States when accessing adapted services in the fields of sport, culture and leisure.
3. In the area of independent living, the European Commission will present guidelines to the Member States in 2023.
4. In addition, the Commission will announce a specific framework for high-quality social services for people with disabilities in 2024.
5. In the area of employment, a ‘Disability Employment Package’ was announced as early as 2022. Concrete measures are expected in 2023.
6. In the area of cooperation with Member States and regional and local authorities, the ‘Disability Platform’ was launched at the end of 2021.
7. Furthermore, the Commission naturally wishes to set a good example of inclusion and has updated its staff strategy in 2022.

The European Commission calls on Member States to take concrete action, such as:

• Improving access to the entire health portfolio, including sexual and reproductive health services for people with disabilities;
• Developing inclusive schools;
• Promoting entrepreneurship among people with disabilities by providing assistance with legal and business matters.

Furthermore, a series of interesting studies have been announced, including on:

• The implementation of Article 30 of the UNCRPD by Member States. This article guarantees the participation of persons with disabilities in cultural life, recreation, leisure and sport;
• The situation of persons with disabilities who live in an institution and are exposed to violence, abuse and/or torture;
• Procedural safeguards for vulnerable adults in criminal proceedings.

Read the full text of the strategy (03/03/2021).

What are the objectives and actions of the strategy? Go to the monitoring framework and view progress.

In its communication entitled 'Enhancing the strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities up to 2030', the European Commission has set out its policy priorities for the period 2026-2030.

The BDF is not satisfied with this and had hoped for concrete actions, which were also expected by people with disabilities: Read the BDF news on the update.