The Global Disability Summit aims to galvanize global efforts to realize disability inclusion around the world. It is a mechanism bringing together a wide variety of high-level stakeholders, engaging and discussing the progress in disability inclusion: governments, multilateral agencies, the private sector, academia and civil society organizations, organizations of persons with disabilities.

Application form for OPDs to be funded to participate in the GDS2025

Introduction  

The Global Disability Summit (GDS) represents a pivotal opportunity to advance disability inclusion on a global scale. The active involvement and participation of civil society, particularly Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), is crucial to ensuring the Summit’s success.

Background to GDS  

The Global Disability Summit (GDS) is a unique global mechanism that aims to improve the lives of persons with disabilities, especially from the Global South. It was created in 2017 to convene global, regional, and national stakeholders that share the same goal and vision for disability inclusive development and humanitarian action.

The Role of OPDs  

Importance of OPDs

Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) are critical as they provide direct representation and advocacy for persons with disabilities. They ensure that the voices and experiences of persons with disabilities are at the forefront of discussions, decision-making, and policy formulation. OPDs bring authenticity and credibility to the dialogue, as they are driven persons with disabilities themselves. OPDs are essential in driving systemic transformational change towards an inclusive and equitable society. Their representative character, strategic advocacy efforts, rights-based approach, and collaborative partnerships distinguish them as key actors in advancing disability rights globally. By amplifying the voices and aspirations of persons with disabilities, OPDs contribute to shaping a world where diversity is celebrated, barriers are dismantled, and everyone can enjoy their rights and benefits from inclusive development.

Active Participation:

To maximize their impact, OPDs should be involved in every phase of the GDS, including:

Planning: OPDs should be part of the core planning committees to help shape the agenda, ensuring it reflects the most pressing issues and priorities of the disability community. OPDs also play a key role in planning and delivering the Civil Society Forum (CSF), through the Civil Society Reference Group (CSRG).  

Delivery: Before the Summit OPDs should be involved in moderating informative and consultative workshops, informing and participating in panels during Regional Summits, in the drafting and submission of commitments, in advocating for participation in the Summit. During the Summit, OPDs should lead and co-host key sessions, workshops, and panels, providing firsthand insights and driving the discussions.  

Follow-Up: Post-summit, OPDs should be engaged in monitoring and evaluating the implementation of commitments made, ensuring accountability and sustained action.  

According to this, the International Disability Alliance (IDA) and the GDS Secretariat are launching this survey to select up to 200 representatives of OPDs to participate in the next Global Disability Summit, in Berlin in 2025. Selected participants will be funded to attend the Global Disability Summit and the Civil Society Forum, and will travel to Berlin from April 1 to April 3 2025. Those selected will be given the opportunity to represent their organization at this global event. They will be given guidance on how to ensure they prepare to represent their networks or constituencies, its perspectives and priorities. They will also have guidance on how to effectively participate and network, how to bring benefits back to the work of their organization.

Selected OPDs representatives will be contacted by IDA’s logistic team to arrange travels. VISA applications will be supported. Decisions on what costs will be covered will follow GIZ cost eligibility criteria and IDA’s Reasonable Accommodation Policy.  

For more information visit: The Global Disability Summit

To Apply Visit: Application form for OPDs to be funded to participate in the GDS2025