European research assignment on assistive technology (AT)

The Funka Foundation has been selected by the European Disability Forum (EDF) to carry out important policy research on the provision of assistive technology in the EU. The assignment will support future policy development at EU level and contribute to improving access to assistive technology for persons with disabilities.

Assistive technology plays a crucial role in enabling participation, independence, education, employment, and access to digital services. When assistive tech doesn’t work, when users cannot afford it or do not recieve relevant training, the whole valuechain around accessibility fails.

Despite this importance, access remains unevenly spread, especially at global level, but also in a European context. Impenetrable provision systems that differs even withinm countries, market fragmentation, unfair funding models, and complex regulatory frameworks continue to create barriers for many users.

The study will analyse provision systems in the member states, identify barriers for end users, assess gaps in the market and policy landscape, and develop recommendations for coordinated EU-level action where needed. The research will also highlight individual experiences of people who face challenges accessing the tools and solutions they need because of structural barriers.

The EU has reached the midpoint of the 2021–2030 Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Important progress has been achieved, but significant barriers remain, preventing many persons with disabilities from participating fully and equally in society and the economy.

This is why the commission is strengthening the strategy with a greater emphasis on implementation, practical delivery, and measurable improvements. In the enhanced strategy, released on the 6 of May, assistive technology is included as a flagship initiative.

Enhancing the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities up to 2030, opens in a new window