About the GDS
What is the Global Disability Summit?
The Global Disability Summit (GDS) is a unique global mechanism that improves 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 Summits aim to close the gap between two often disconnected areas: disability inclusion and development cooperation. GDS is more than just a two-day event held every three years—it is a mechanism involving continuous advocacy with global disability development stakeholders and the mobilization of the disability rights movement and its allies.
At its core, GDS is a partnership between member states and Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), exemplified by the collaborative approach to co-hosting arrangements.
The Summits aim to close the gap between two often disconnected areas: disability inclusion and development cooperation. GDS is more than just a two-day event held every three years—it is a mechanism involving continuous advocacy with global disability development stakeholders and the mobilization of the disability rights movement and its allies.
At its core, GDS is a partnership between member states and Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), exemplified by the collaborative approach to co-hosting arrangements.
Download a document with Key Messages and Objectives here and the Easy to Read document here.
Download the GDS Advocacy Toolkit to help you get acquainted with our advocacy goals and amplify our messages.
Download a pamphlet that you can use to communicate about the GDS in English here and the Easy to Read document here.
Do you have a question about the GDS? Contact the GDS Secretariat at summit@ida-secretariat.org
How to participate
Registration
Secure your spot at the Global Disability Summit by following our simple registration process. Please note that registration does not guarantee entry; all registrations will undergo security screening, with only approved attendees receiving access passes.
Registration is open and free of charge.
Registration is open and free of charge.
Map, informations
Venue Accessibility
The Global Disability Summit venue is fully accessible. Use our map to find information on entrances, elevators, ramps, and other accessibility features to ensure easy access for all attendees.
Where you find
The Venue
Use our map to easily find the Global Disability Summit venue. The map provides detailed directions, transportation options, parking information, and guidance on the easiest routes.
