For the first time in Ukraine, from May 19, the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications, together with the Ministry of Development and the Plenipotentiary Advisor to the President of Ukraine on Barrier-Free Issues, is planning to hold a National Barrier-Free Week to implement measure 14 of task 23 of the action plan for 2025-2026 on the implementation of the "National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Space in Ukraine for the Period Until 2030".
The goal of the National Accessibility Week is to promote the formation of a culture of accessibility in Ukrainian society by raising awareness, motivating for change, and popularizing positive examples of equal opportunities for all social groups.
Materials on accessibility can be found at the following links:
1. Accessibility Guide – https://bf.in.ua/
2. Guide to barrier-free events – when can we hold events for everyone without exception (http://surl.li/smnqh)http://surl.li/smnqh – in book format, http://surl.li/smnqm, which can be downloaded), or
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KFOXcSrhOjGdzf3x2NWwVVw6gSC0mTn7/view
The guide to barrier-free events was created as part of the initiative of First Lady Olena Zelenska "Without Barriers".
3. Manual "Album of Barrier-Free Solutions": https://bcl.com.ua/albomrozdil1/
Accessibility is when people can move freely, study, work, travel, regardless of disability, age, gender, and other characteristics. It's about convenience and respect for the needs of each and every person.
Accessibility consists of 6 main areas:
1. Physical accessibility
Barrier-free is when you can leave your home and not be afraid of the first curb. When urban space is not a challenge, but an invitation.
Accessibility is when you can move without thinking about what will stop you at the next step. Your city should be there for you - not just in words.
2. Information accessibility
Accessibility is when you can understand what is written the first time. Because accessible language is a manifestation of respect, not simplification.
Accessibility is when you can avoid spending energy on decoding - because the information should be immediately understandable.
3. Social and civil accessibility
Accessibility is when you can be part of society without having to conform to its idea of the “norm.” Because a strong community is a diverse community.
Accessibility is when you can participate in social life as an equal. When your opinions matter, whether you speak out loud or not,
gestures or through the screen.
4. Educational accessibility
Accessibility is when you can learn at any age. When school, university, and online courses are open to everyone who wants to know more.
Accessibility is when you can learn regardless of age, health status, or learning format. Knowledge should be open to everyone.
5. Digital accessibility
Accessibility is when you can be online on equal terms, not being left out because of an inconvenient or poorly thought-out interface.
Accessibility is when you can be part of the digital world - regardless of age, experience, or health status.
6. Economic accessibility
Accessibility is when you can work when you want. And when you are evaluated for your work, not for your age, gender, or health status.
Barrier-free is when you can work because you have talent, knowledge, and desire, not because of a “suitable profile.” And the employer looks at your profession and your experience, not just your gender and age.