An international training session titled "Inclusive Cities and Independent Living for Persons with Disabilities" was organized on May 19 within the framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Cairo. The event was initiated by the "Independent Living Center of Persons with Disabilities" Public Union to address global standards in urban accessibility.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the training was developed in strict accordance with the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The primary objective was to highlight the importance of building inclusive cities that support independent living at both practical and policy levels. During the session, participants discussed how urban planning, social policy, public services, and community-based support mechanisms directly impact the daily lives of persons with disabilities.
The event featured high-level speakers, including Azerbaijan's Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) Sabina Aliyeva, Chairperson of the Board of the State Support Agency for Non-Governmental Organizations Aygun Aliyeva, and Milli Majlis (National Assembly) member Parvana Valiyeva. Aydin Khalilov, head of the "Independent Living Center of Persons with Disabilities" Public Union, emphasized that inclusivity extends beyond physical barriers. "Independent living does not mean living without support; it means the right to choose one's support, services, and lifestyle," Khalilov stated. International representatives from Jordan, Senegal, and Yemen also contributed to the discussions, praising the initiative as a vital step toward global institutional dialogue.
The World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations, is the world's premier conference on sustainable urban development. Azerbaijan's active participation in WUF13 reflects the country's commitment to implementing inclusive urban models and strengthening international cooperation in the field of social rights. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the promotion of independent living and the rights of persons with disabilities in Azerbaijan and beyond.
