The Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025, held in Berlin on April 2–3, showcased a dynamic program that celebrated innovation and strengthened global commitments to disability rights. Building on the successes of the previous summits (GDS 2018 and GDS 2022), this year’s event was co-hosted by the governments of Germany and Jordan, alongside the permanent co-host, the International Disability Alliance (IDA). This remarkable global mechanism continues to galvanize efforts to achieve disability inclusion worldwide.
Breaking Barriers: Addressing the consequences of stereotypes and prejudices Against individuals with disabilities
Every day, individuals with disabilities encounter subtle yet pervasive barriers rooted in condescension and low expectations. These attitudes, often unspoken, accumulate over time and profoundly impact self-perception, mental health, and the general quality of life.
Although the diversity of disabilities is vast and complex, the forms of exclusion, discrimination, and prejudice faced are strikingly similar across different disabilities. Without falling into oversimplification, let us explore the significant consequences of stereotypes and prejudices directed at people with disabilities.
Stereotypes as social barrier
Infrastructure is the most common aspect we tend to think of when talking about accessibility.
However, accessibility is an umbrella concept that entails many other aspects which, unfortunately, are often overlooked.
Social interactions between people with disabilities and people without disabilities is definitely one of the often overlooked aspects. However, making our society truthfully inclusive is not just about accessible general services (e.g., public transports, public venues, etc.). It is also about accessible companionship and social contacts.
Indeed, stereotypes, stigma, and prejudice often make socializing a challenging prospect.
Let’s see how and why social interactions can result frustrating and/or “unsuccessful” for people with disabilities at times.