Online Briefing on National Barrier-Free Week Held by DSNS
The State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS) recently convened an online meeting to coordinate preparations for the National Barrier-Free Week, scheduled from May 25 to 31. Deputy Head Volodymyr Demchuk, who serves as the agency’s designated officer for equal rights and opportunities for women and men as well as for preventing and combating violence, led the session. Participants included officials responsible for accessibility, communications, and the implementation of state policy on these issues within the DSNS system.
The discussion centered on organizing and executing events for the National Barrier-Free Week, along with the informational support for related initiatives. Attendees showcased successful approaches to building barrier-free environments, with a strong emphasis on fostering a culture of human-centered and inclusive communication. The meeting recommended using correct terminology as outlined in the Barrier-Free Handbook and the state language standard on barrier-free terminology.
Planned Activities for National Barrier-Free Week
Across the DSNS system, a series of events is being prepared, including informational and educational campaigns, training sessions, webinars, open debates, and presentations of best practices. The goal is to raise public awareness about the necessity of accessible spaces, services, and information, while also promoting a culture of respect, dignity, and inclusion. Organizers were also advised to follow the guidelines for hosting inclusive events as set out in the Barrier-Free Events Guide.
Scheduled for late May, the National Barrier-Free Week aims to boost societal understanding of the importance of accessibility and inclusion. This initiative seeks to improve conditions for all citizens, regardless of their abilities, and to foster an environment that supports equality. As a key state institution, DSNS is actively engaging in this policy effort, underscoring the critical role of barrier-free access across every aspect of life.