"Universal Access" for All

Since the implementation of the Accessible Environment Construction Law in recent years, mainland China has promoted accessibility practices across various cities, significantly improving barrier-free travel and usage in community planning, buildings, and supporting facilities. “Universal Access” refers to the integrated planning, design, and implementation of facilities and services for both the general public and persons with disabilities. These facilities and services are accessible to all without requiring additional modifications or special designs, embodying a practice of diversity and inclusion. Notably, Hangzhou significantly enhanced its community streets, buildings, tourist attractions, and transportation infrastructure during the 2023 Asian Para Games to accommodate the diverse mobility needs of persons with disabilities, seniors, and other individuals requiring special assistance.

The Hangzhou Accessible Environment Promotion Association has been actively involved in advocating and driving these initiatives. Coinciding with their recent exchange visit to Hong Kong, we were delighted to host the Association’s President, Secretary-General, Vice President, and Deputy Secretary-General. During their visit, they toured our Chan Fuk Shing Resource Centre to learn about our diverse work, including our experience in actively promoting community accessibility, and engaged in in-depth discussions.

We shared with them successful examples of direct grassroots participation by persons with disabilities in initiatives such as advocating for the review and revision of the Buildings Department’s Design Manual and enhancing accessibility at the Kai Tak Sports Park. We also highlighted past advocacy experiences with various public sector departments and transport operators, including the Housing Department, Transport Department, Hospital Authority, Kowloon Motor Bus, and MTR Corporation, demonstrating stakeholder advocacy by persons with disabilities. Additionally, we introduced our Hangzhou counterparts to Hong Kong’s newly introduced electronic audible crossing devices, explaining how they enhance safety for visually impaired individuals when crossing pedestrian crossings. They expressed keen interest in the devices and appreciated the efforts to promote them, noting the concept could be adapted for Hangzhou with further reference.

#HangzhouAccessibilityPromotionAssociation #RehabilitationAllianceHongKong
#DiversityInclusion #PromotingCommunityAccessibility