Disability Inclusion in Post-Crisis Reconstruction
09 July 2026 | 13:00–14:30 CEST | Virtual Event
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How can reconstruction efforts after conflict and disaster become truly inclusive? How can persons with disabilities actively shape the rebuilding of societies, economies, and institutions after crises?
These are some of the key questions that will guide the Living Inclusion Network (LIN) Forum 2026, which will bring together experts, practitioners, organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), policymakers, and development actors from around the world for an interactive discussion on disability-inclusive reconstruction.
Against the backdrop of ongoing crises and conflicts across the globe, reconstruction has become a central issue in international development cooperation. Yet persons with disabilities continue to be disproportionately affected during and after crises, while often remaining excluded from recovery and rebuilding processes.
The forum will explore practical approaches, lessons learned, and innovative strategies for ensuring that reconstruction efforts are inclusive, accessible, participatory, and rights-based.
Why this topic matters
Disability-inclusive reconstruction goes far beyond rebuilding infrastructure. It also means rebuilding systems, livelihoods, social cohesion, and trust in ways that leave no one behind.
Aligned with the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), the Amman-Berlin Declaration, and the 2030 Agenda, the event will highlight how disability inclusion can be embedded across post-crisis recovery efforts — from public services and economic recovery to peacebuilding and civic participation.
What to expect
The virtual forum will combine plenary discussions with interactive breakout sessions and inclusive facilitation methods. Participants will exchange experiences, contribute ideas, and engage directly with speakers and fellow participants.
Introductory Words:
- Dr Katharina Spieß, Head of BMZ Division 222: Crisis management, reconstruction, transitional development assistance.
Keynote:
- Dr Tetiana Lomakina, Advisor – Presidential Commissioner for Barrier-Free Environment, Ukraine.
Breakout rooms:
- Julia Schönborn, Programme Coordinator, Ukraine and Mariia Levchenko, Humanitarian Project Team Manager, Ukraine, Christian Blind Mission (CBM).
- Kefah Abu-Ghoush, Executive Director and Kifah Mithkal Bani, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning and Reporting Officer, Stars of Hope Society, Palestinian Territories.
- Ellyjoy Kithure, Gender and Peacebuilding Advisor, and Laura Aumeer, Europe-Asia Department Director, Conciliation Resources.
Accessibility and Inclusion
The Living Inclusion Network is committed to making the event as accessible and inclusive as possible.
The event will include:
- International Sign Language interpretation
- Live captioning throughout the event
- Inclusive facilitation methods and interactive participation opportunities
Please note that the event will be recorded and later shared with LIN members via the Living Inclusion website and YouTube channel.