About GAATES
The Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments (GAATES) is the leading international organization dedicated to the promotion of accessibility of the built and virtual environments and to promoting the Guiding Principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), adopted in December 2006.
Registered as a non-profit NGO in Canada, GAATES was incorporated in 2007 by an international consortium dedicated to promoting accessibility worldwide. GAATES has a global membership and an active presence in 6 regions: the Asia-Pacific, Arab, North America, South America, European and African Regions. This international perspective enables GAATES to develop collaborative partnerships with a wide range of grass roots and professional stakeholders, NGOs/DPOs civil society organizations, professional associations, private sector organizations and individuals interested in the Global Development Agenda and Universal Design.
GAATES obtained consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) in 2008.
Our 10th Anniversary Booklet that highlights initiatives since forming can be accessed here
For details on our Board, Country Representatives, and Management Team please click here
Mission
GAATES‘ mission is to lead in the promotion, understanding and implementation of accessibility of the sustainable built, social and virtual environments. This includes infrastructure design, transportation systems, urban environment, and information and communication technologies (ICT), ensuring that everyone, including people with disabilities and older persons, are able to fully participate and contribute to society.
Vision of Universal Design
Implementing Universal Design principles takes everybody into account and leads to fully inclusive and sustainable environments.
GAATES Services
GAATES uses a rights-based, Universal Design approach in the provision of all services for all projects and activities. GAATES has completed projects for leading global private sector organizations, UN Agencies and Departments, and civil society organizations on a number of projects.
Accessibility Audits and Assessments
Built and Landscape Environments
Accessible Website Audits and Development
Transportation – Facilities and Vehicles
Guidelines & Policy Development
Built Environment
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
Transportation
Procurement
Training & Education
Universal Design and Accessibility
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
Transportation
Disaster and Emergency Preparedness
Tourism
UN Convention
UN CRPD Implementation
Key Indicators of Accessibility
Reporting
Global Accessibility News Service
The first online international accessibility newsletter. This news service is a global source of information for those involved in Universal Design, assistive technologies, accessible environments, and for people with disabilities. The aim of the website is to provide comprehensive news and information on accessibility developments in technology and the built environment that will lead a positive action in society.
You can access and subscribe to this free news service here: globalaccessibilitynews.com
GAATES Global Calendar
What People are Saying
"GAATES work on accessibility highlights the social barriers that affect persons with disabilities' access to community life and the diversity of disability" -Princess Sarah Zeid of Jordan and Every Women Every Child Everywhere.
- "GAATES work has led to increased global awareness and implementation on Article 9 of the UNCRPD, Accessibility, and continues to develop networks and projects that progressively realize the accessibility components of the UNCRPD."- Eric Zhang of United Nations Office of Economic and Social Affairs
- "The Network of Experts at GAATES develop innovative projects that bring the CRPD to life"
"Universal Design lies at the core of Inclusive Education. GAATES' work with UNICEF has impacted our work in the field" - Ambassador Webson UNICEF