EU unveils bold plan to empower 90 million people with disabilities by 2030
The European Commission has unveiled an updated strategy to strengthen the rights of persons with disabilities across the EU. Part of a broader social plan, the new measures target housing exclusion, employment gaps, and poverty risks that disproportionately affect this group. Over 90 million Europeans currently live with a disability, according to Eurostat data. The updated 2021-2030 strategy introduces several key changes. One major initiative is the launch of an Alliance for Independent Living, designed to shift support from institutional care to community-based living. At present, 1.4 million Europeans with disabilities still reside in institutions.
Employment remains a critical issue, with only 55% of persons with disabilities in work, compared to 77% of those without. Financial insecurity is equally pressing, as one in three faces poverty risk—nearly twice the EU average. To improve daily life, the strategy pushes for better transport accessibility and investment in assistive technologies, including AI-powered tools. It also confirms the EU-wide rollout of the European Disability Card and Parking Card, simplifying cross-border access to support services. Additionally, the new social plan features the EU’s first-ever anti-poverty strategy, reinforcing efforts to tackle economic exclusion.
The revised strategy aims to reduce institutionalisation, boost employment, and cut poverty rates among persons with disabilities. Concrete steps include expanding community support, improving transport, and rolling out EU-wide accessibility cards. The Commission’s plan now moves to member states for implementation.
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