Empower Voices: Funding Opportunity for OPD Representatives at the 2025 Global Disability Summit!
The Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025 is inviting applications from Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) interested in being funded to participate in this significant global event. The summit, set to take place in Berlin from April 1 to April 3, 2025, serves as a unique platform to promote disability inclusion and advocacy worldwide. Selected representatives will attend both the GDS and the Civil Society Forum, empowering OPDs to actively engage in pivotal discussions, workshops, and panels.
About the Global Disability Summit (GDS)
Established in 2017, the GDS aims to enhance the lives of persons with disabilities, particularly in the Global South, by bringing together stakeholders across global, regional, and national levels. This summit represents a unified approach to disability-inclusive development and humanitarian action, making it essential for OPD participation.
The Role and Importance of OPDs
OPDs are crucial advocates for persons with disabilities, representing their voices and needs authentically. These organizations are instrumental in ensuring that GDS discussions are informed by firsthand experiences and driven by the principles of inclusion and equity. Their involvement is fundamental to achieving systemic, transformational change toward a more inclusive world.
Key Areas of Involvement for OPDs:
- Planning
- OPDs will contribute to planning committees, ensuring that summit agendas reflect the pressing issues facing the disability community.
- Through the Civil Society Reference Group (CSRG), OPDs will play a major role in planning and delivering the Civil Society Forum.
- Delivery
- Leading up to the Summit, OPDs will moderate workshops, participate in panels at Regional Summits, draft and submit commitments, and advocate for broader participation.
- During the Summit, OPDs will co-host sessions and workshops, sharing insights and steering meaningful discussions.
- Follow-Up
- OPDs will be key in monitoring and evaluating post-summit commitments, ensuring accountability and long-term impact.
Selection and Support for OPD Representatives
The International Disability Alliance (IDA), in collaboration with the GDS Secretariat, will select up to 200 OPD representatives to attend the GDS 2025 in Berlin. Selected representatives will be supported in preparing to represent their organizations effectively, gaining insights on engagement, networking, and follow-up for impactful participation.
Logistics and Costs
- IDA’s logistics team will assist with travel arrangements.
- Support for VISA applications and coverage of eligible costs will follow GIZ’s cost eligibility criteria and IDA’s Reasonable Accommodation Policy.
This funding opportunity offers a vital chance for OPDs to influence global disability inclusion strategies.
How to Apply
Application Process
OPDs interested in applying can access the application form in both online and downloadable formats (download the form in Word format in English here).
A comprehensive concept note outlining selection criteria can also be downloaded here.
