HRC61 - EU Statement - Annual interactive debate on the rights of persons with disabilities Theme: Disability inclusive infrastructure, including transport and housing

UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL

61^st session

Annual interactive debate on the rights of persons with disabilities Theme: Disability‑inclusive infrastructure, including transport and housing

6 March 2026

EU statement

Mr. President,

The European Union welcomes the focus of this debate on disability-inclusive infrastructure, including transport and housing, as structural enablers of autonomy, equality and full participation of persons with disabilities. Accessible infrastructure is a human rights obligation under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and a cornerstone of inclusive care and support systems.

Accessible public transportation, including point-to-point services, and individualized housing adjustments are essential to ensure independent living, community inclusion and equal access to employment, education and services, including the cultural sector. They also help reduce over-reliance on unpaid care work, which disproportionately affects women. Yet territorial disparities, fragmented urban planning and underinvestment continue to prevent many persons with disabilities from fully enjoying their rights.

The EU and its Member States continue joint efforts to reinforce the rights of persons with disabilities, under the EU Disability Rights Strategy 2021–2030 and with the guidance of the Accessible EU Resource Centre on accessibility standards. The EU is also developing the European Affordable Housing Plan, aimed also at addressing structural barriers that disproportionately affect persons with disabilities, including the accessibility of surrounding environments and community services. The EU funds also support employment, social policies and inclusion of persons with disabilities.

We stress the importance of integrating accessibility from the outset in infrastructure planning and public investment strategies. Participatory governance and co-design with persons with disabilities and their representative organizations are indispensable, as well as intersectoral coordination, in order to align infrastructure development with inclusive persons-centered support systems.

What concrete mechanisms have proven most effective in ensuring that accessibility is systematically embedded in public investment frameworks and monitored for accountability? 

Thank you.