In order to fully guarantee the rights of people with disabilities, the European Commission has an ambitious roadmap that contributes to the implementation of the EU's social pillars: the Strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities 2021-2030. This proposal is a follow-up to the previous European Disability Strategy 2010-2020, which was a major step forward in enabling people with disabilities to exercise their full rights and participate fully in society and the economy. In fact, it was under the umbrella of this approach and in line with its objectives that we at D-Hub started our activity.

Despite the steps taken, people with disabilities still face some obstacles in areas such as access to health care, education, employment, leisure or even participation in political life. Therefore, as a lever for change, the current Strategy must provide concrete and well-defined actions with the aim of improving the lives of people with disabilities in the next decade and achieving, once and for all, a 100% equal consideration.

To this end, the strategy sets out 3 main themes:

• Rights in political life. People with disabilities have the same right as other EU citizens to participate in political life. The Commission will work closely with Member States to ensure the participation of people with disabilities in the electoral process in 2023.

• Independent and autonomous living. Having an independent life, and being free to choose where and with whom to live is a right. To support independent living, the Commission will develop a guide and launch an initiative to improve social services for people with disabilities.

• Non-discrimination. People with disabilities will be protected from all forms of discrimination and violence. The aim of the Strategy is to guarantee equal opportunities and access to justice, education, culture, sport, work, etc.

At D-Hub we are aware that the goals of this Strategy can only be achieved through coordinated action both at national and European Union level, through complete involvement by all States, with the guaranteed commitment of regional and local authorities and with the support of other social agents such as the private sector or social entities.