Towards an Accessible Future: New Initiatives in Ukraine
Today, the streets are increasingly populated by individuals in wheelchairs, victims of the ongoing conflict. Unfortunately, the number of such individuals is rising daily due to the full-scale war, highlighting the urgent need for an accessible environment where everyone can feel comfortable, regardless of their health status.
Odesa is recognized as a leader in inclusivity; moreover, Mayor Hennadiy Trukhanov declared 2025 as the Year of Accessibility in the city. This indicates that the plans for this year are extensive and cover all areas of life.
The driving force behind these efforts is the Council for Accessibility, established at the end of last year. This advisory body brings together representatives from municipal structures, civil society, and veteran organizations to collaboratively enhance the accessibility landscape.
According to Hennadiy Trukhanov, who leads the Council, accessibility is not just about physical access; it’s a philosophy of a city where everyone has equal opportunities.
Within the Council's framework, expert groups operate on various fronts; a City Accessibility Strategy for 2025-2026 has been adopted, synchronized with the National Strategy, outlining key priorities for the next two years. Regular inspections of infrastructure and locations are conducted, with recommendations provided by veterans and individuals with disabilities who are part of the expert groups.
“The priorities of our work are determined by individuals with disabilities, as they understand the needs and challenges they face daily,” emphasized Oleksiy Morozov, Deputy Head of the Council.
The main goal of the Council is to consolidate the efforts of government, veterans, civil society, and businesses around accessibility as a crucial contemporary issue.
