We are excited to announce the release of our first policy brief, focusing on the critical issue of cultural accessibility for people with disabilities within the European Union. This brief not only analyzes current EU policies but also highlights the significant gaps that hinder true inclusivity in the cultural sector.
Why Cultural Accessibility Matters
Cultural accessibility is more than just a legal obligation; it is a fundamental right that ensures everyone, regardless of ability, can engage with and contribute to cultural life. Article 30 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) emphasizes the importance of removing barriers to cultural participation. Yet, despite progress, many obstacles remain, particularly in the integration of multisensory experiences that cater to diverse needs.
Key Findings of the Brief
The policy brief identifies several critical gaps in existing EU policies, including:
Limited Multisensory Integration: Current policies often focus on singular sensory modalities, neglecting the potential of multisensory technologies that can create richer cultural experiences for individuals with multiple disabilities.
Sustainability of Inclusive Practices: Many inclusive initiatives rely heavily on the commitment of specific individuals, risking discontinuation when these individuals move on.
Need for Enhanced Support for Technological Innovation: There is insufficient emphasis on the co-creation of cultural assets with people with disabilities, limiting the development of innovative tools that could significantly enhance accessibility.
A Call to Action
Our policy brief serves as a call to action for policymakers, cultural institutions, and the broader community to prioritize cultural accessibility. By integrating multisensory technologies, improving data collection and monitoring, and supporting artists with disabilities, we can create a cultural landscape that truly reflects the diversity of our society.
Get Involved
We invite you to read the full policy brief here and share it within your networks. Your support can help raise awareness and drive meaningful action toward a more inclusive cultural sector. Together, we can make culture accessible for all!
For more information about MuseIT and our innovative inclusive technologies, feel free to reach out to us at contact@muse-it.eu.
This policy brief marks the beginning of an analysis of the current policies and initiatives related to the core themes of MuseIT. Additional areas requiring further attention have been identified: the role of technologies and technological developers in cultural participation (through projects, initiatives, and public policies) and the implementation of available tools and initiatives within cultural institutions.
The upcoming policy briefs will focus on these topics.
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