Development of a barrier-free environment in the community through innovation and openness (UAKLY0004)

Commitment ID

UAKLY0004

Commitment Title

Development of a barrier-free environment in the community through innovation and openness

Problem

Limited awareness and understanding of accessibility principles among residents and business representatives hinder the implementation of inclusive solutions in the community and slow the development of a culture of accessibility in everyday life. As a result, public spaces, services, and commercial premises often remain partially inaccessible to persons with disabilities and other groups with reduced mobility, reinforcing social exclusion and unequal access to opportunities.

Status quo

At the beginning of the Action Plan period, the level of awareness among community residents and business representatives regarding accessibility remains insufficient. This results in a limited understanding of the needs of persons with disabilities and other groups with reduced mobility, as well as a lack of consistent application of accessibility principles in public spaces and services. Accessibility considerations are often treated as optional or secondary,  leading to uneven implementation across different sectors and locations. As a result, inclusive solutions are applied inconsistently, and barriers in the physical environment, service delivery, and communication persist, affecting equal access to services and participation in community life.

Action

The commitment fulfillment provides implementation of 4 actions:

• Creation and launch of an interactive “Accessibility Map”;
• Introduction of a municipal microgrant/benefit program for small businesses to adapt their premises to barrier-free standards;
• Introduction of an “Accessible Business” award/prize for establishments that adhere to the principles of accessibility;
• Conducting an information campaign to promote a culture of accessibility.

Each action addresses expected outcomes that are crucial for improving citizens’ quality of life. The expected results include:

The launch and operation of an interactive Accessibility Map that consolidates reliable data on the accessibility of buildings and public spaces, increasing transparency and informed decision-making for residents and visitors.

• Increased involvement of small business representatives in creating a barrier-free and inclusive environment through targeted support mechanisms and incentives;
• The establishment of a public recognition mechanism that encourages entrepreneurs to implement accessibility principles and promotes positive practices through visibility and public acknowledgement.
• Improved public awareness and understanding of accessibility principles, contributing to behavioural change, inclusive attitudes, and broader civic support for barrier-free solutions.

How will the commitment contribute to solving the public problem described above?

This commitment directly addresses the existing lack of systemic awareness, incentives, and accessible information related to barrier-free environments in the community. The launch of an interactive Accessibility Map will ensure open, transparent, and up-to-date information on the accessibility of public buildings and facilities for persons with disabilities and other low-mobility groups, enabling informed decision-making by residents and visitors.

The introduction of a municipal micro-grant or incentive programme, together with the “Accessible Business” award, will create practical motivation and support mechanisms for small businesses to adapt their premises to accessibility standards. These measures encourage voluntary compliance with barrier-free principles and help embed accessibility into everyday business practices.

In parallel, an information and awareness-raising campaign will promote a shared understanding of accessibility as a public value, fostering behavioural change and strengthening a culture of inclusion among residents, entrepreneurs, and local institutions.

Taken together, these actions increase community engagement in accessibility-related initiatives, reduce structural and informational barriers, and contribute to the creation of a more inclusive, transparent, and accessible urban environment, ultimately improving the quality of life for all residents.

What long-term goal as identified in your Open Government Strategy does this commitment relate to?

This commitment relates to the long-term goal of building an inclusive, transparent, and citizen-oriented community, where accessibility principles are systematically integrated into public spaces, services, and decision-making processes.

In the long term, it contributes to ensuring equal opportunities for all residents, including persons with disabilities and other low-mobility groups, by embedding accessibility as a standard component of municipal policies, service delivery, and urban development. Through openness, public participation, and the use of digital tools, the commitment supports the creation of a barrier-free environment that improves quality of life, strengthens social cohesion, and enhances trust between local authorities, businesses, and the community.

Primary Policy Area

Digital Governance, Inclusion

Primary Sector

Infrastructure & Transport, Public Services (general)

What OGP value is this commitment relevant to?