As technology evolves, everybody’s life changes. However, all innovative solutions need to be conceived in an inclusive way so we can all make the most out of them. The same philosophy applies to both urban design and mobility, especially with the emergence of smart cities nowadays. To raise awareness on that subject, the AccessibleEU hosted a hybrid event in Madrid (Spain) on 2nd July, gathering policy-makers, accessibility professionals and representatives of people with disabilities’ organisations in a fruitful and interesting conference.
Overall, panellists underlined the importance of advocating for inclusion in the design of urban areas in the context of policy-making processes. In words of Marko Vešligaj, from the European Committee of the Regions, “this would be a way to empower persons with disabilities and promote their participation in civic life”.
Apart from developing smart cities under the principles enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, speakers also brought the attention to ensuring the effective implementation of legislation in that area, as well as the importance of sharing best practices. Nora Bednarski, Member of the Cabinet of the European Commissioner for Equality, Helena Dalli, highlighted the active role of cities in this domain, showcasing the EU Access City Award as a tool to encourage the development of built environments that meet accessibility standards.
Pending challenges and more inclusive decision-making
In spite of the potential benefits of technology for people with disabilities, we still face barriers in this area. This is well reflected in issues such as the widening of the digital divide or the lack of consideration for the principles of Universal Design by both public institutions and private stakeholders. With this in mind, Daniel González-Botello, from the Smart City Cluster, remarked that “innovation should be used to correct our past mistakes, thus creating opportunities for the future”.
Additionally, Hannes Juhlin Lagrelius, Program Officer at the World Blind Union, pinpointed the need of holistic approaches to bring forward solutions in that area. In the same way, other participants such as Martín de los Heros, from the architecture firm “Morph Estudio” emphasised the importance of collecting data to better implement regulations in the design of smart cities.
Throughout the conference, participants also heard the testimonies of Paloma Contreras (Autism Europe), Mercedes Mayoral (European Dyslexia Association) or Alexandre Bloxs (European Union of the Deaf), who shared their common concern that people with disabilities are insufficiently represented in decision-making processes related to smart cities. As stressed by Antonella Candiago (European Network of Independent Living), their voices are crucial and should not be ignored.
In conclusion, it’s not only about promoting the evolution of urban areas in a technological way: we must also bear in mind accessibility and inclusion standards so our communities can lead autonomous lives on an equal basis with others.