Over one billion people worldwide live with disabilities, yet many continue to face systemic exclusion, discrimination, and barriers to participation. These inequities intersect deeply with global challenges such as poverty, gender inequality, and climate change – and disability rights must be included when it comes to tackling the Sustainable Development Goals.
Despite international commitments like the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), progress remains slow, leaving millions behind. The 2025 Global Disability Summit (GDS) is a crucial opportunity to change this. Co-hosted by the International Disability Alliance and the Governments of Germany and Jordan, the GDS will bring together leaders, representatives of organizations of persons with disabilities, and other civil society organizations.
The summit is a chance for leaders to finally move from promises to action. By mainstreaming disability inclusion into broader development frameworks, empowering persons with disabilities, ensuring their voices shape decisions, and driving bold policies backed by resources, GDS 2025 can set a new standard for inclusion. Strong partnerships, measurable commitments, and data-driven approaches are essential to build a more equitable future.
Your voice matters. By signing this petition, you’re urging global leaders to make disability rights a priority at GDS 2025 in Berlin. Together, we can create a world where no one is left behind.