This concerns us all: genuine inclusion and participation

Often, it is seemingly small things that many people do not even notice in everyday life, but which represent major obstacles for people with disabilities. A kerb that is too high to use the pavement. A shop that is inaccessible due to a few steps. Or leisure activities that are designed in such a way that only independent people can participate without any problems, while those who are dependent on support quickly fall through the cracks.

Children with disabilities often have a particularly difficult time. Many of them have few opportunities to socialise outside of nursery, school and their own homes. Inclusive leisure and sports activities for children are rare and often inaccessible to families in rural areas, as they are usually only available in cities.

In rural areas in particular, people with disabilities and their families face a particularly large number of obstacles. This makes the path to social participation a daily challenge.

We are also actively committed to breaking down barriers, step by step. Our goal is to design our offerings in such a way that they are truly accessible to everyone. For us, true inclusion means that every person – regardless of their abilities or needs – should have the same opportunities to participate and use our offerings without restrictions.

That is why we would like to emphasise today that every barrier that disappears – no matter how small it may seem at first glance – is a big step towards a society in which all people have equal opportunities. A society in which they can shape their lives independently, actively and without unnecessary obstacles.