In a world that strives for inclusivity, the Zero Conference 2024 in Vienna served as a beacon of hope and progress, focusing on innovative solutions such as inclusive education and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to foster the rights of persons with disabilities. From February 21st to 23rd, OPDs, world leaders, inclusion enthusiasts, educators, policymakers, technologists, advocates, and many more gathered to exchange ideas, share best practices, and foster collaboration towards a more inclusive future.
The conference provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities thereby sharing experiences and good practices of disability inclusion. Participants explored how technology can empower learners of all abilities, break down barriers to education, and promote inclusion.
A significant highlight of the event was the inaugural presentation of the Global Disability Summit (GDS) by the GDS hosts Germany, Jordan and IDA. By bringing together governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector, the GDS which will take place on the 2nd and 3rd of April 2025 in Berlin aims to catalyze action towards a more inclusive and accessible world for all. As emphasized by the GDS commissioner Hans Baur (BMZ) highlighting the importance the GDS: “We will make the GDS a turning point for inclusion globally living up to the crucial principle “Nothing about us without us.”
This landmark moment showcased the commitment of global leaders to address the needs and rights of persons with disabilities and HRH Jordanian’s Prince Mired Raad Al- Hussein, the president of the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on the GDS spoke passionately about the importance of motivating world leaders to take national ownership on the topic of disability inclusion: „The world’s leaders who participate in the GDS should be giddy with excitement to incite change after this summit.“ (HRH Al-Hussein, 2024)
With the Zero Conference serving as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, attendees were encouraged to join the movement towards living inclusion and to join the GDS in April 2025.