16 May Declared “National Accessibility Day” in Türkiye
Global Disability Foundation – UK Branch welcomes the step as a milestone for inclusive societies worldwide
The Global Disability Foundation proudly celebrates the official recognition of 16 May as “National Accessibility Day” in Türkiye, following a Presidential Decree published in the Official Gazette and signed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The new observance marks the final day of the annual Disability Week (10–16 May), underscoring the country’s ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
Accessibility: A Universal Right
The decree defines accessibility as “the ability of everyone to reach and benefit from any place, service or information independently and safely.”
It highlights that individuals with restricted mobility – particularly persons with disabilities and older adults – must be able to access all public and social services, including health, education, employment, transportation and communication, on an equal basis with others.
Creating accessible built environments, transport systems, urban services and digital technologies is identified as essential for enabling independent living and ensuring full participation in society.
Shared Responsibility for an Inclusive Society
The decree further emphasises that ensuring accessibility is a collective duty – not only of public authorities, but also of private-sector organisations, designers, manufacturers, service providers, and inspection bodies.
It calls for strengthened monitoring mechanisms, increased public awareness, and coordinated action across all sectors to promote an accessible society.
The statement notes:
“With the aim of fostering awareness that accessibility is a fundamental human right, enhancing the visibility of accessibility symbols, sharing best practices and ensuring sustainability for future generations, 16 May will be celebrated annually as National Accessibility Day under the coordination of the Ministry of Family and Social Services.”
All public institutions and organisations are instructed to prioritise and support events and initiatives taking place as part of National Accessibility Day.
A Message from the Minister of Family and Social Services
Commenting on the announcement, the Minister of Family and Social Services, Mahinur Özdemir Göktaş, stated via social media:
“Accessibility is vital for every individual in society—especially for persons with disabilities and older adults—to access health, education, information and transport services independently, safely and equally.
We are deeply grateful to President Erdoğan for taking this meaningful step. As the Ministry, we consider accessibility a human right and a matter of social justice, and we continue to strengthen the infrastructure for a barrier-free life for everyone.”
Global Disability Foundation UK: A Shared Vision
The Global Disability Foundation – UK welcomes this development as a powerful example of policy commitment that transcends national borders.
Accessibility is not merely a technical requirement but a human right—a foundation for equality, dignity, and participation for all.
As part of our global mission, we continue to collaborate with public bodies, private organisations, and civil society in the United Kingdom and internationally to build a world without barriers—one that ensures equal access to opportunities, spaces, and information for everyone.
