Asia Pacific Accessibility

This image is a logo of apna - Asia pacific network for accessibility, which written in a white font over a purple background.

Special Focus Sections

The Asia-Pacific Network for Accessibility (APNA) is a cross-disability, women-led initiative dedicated to advancing universal accessibility and disability-inclusive development across the Asia-Pacific region.

 

Born from the vision of the Jakarta Declaration (2023–2032), APNA seeks to remove barriers—both physical and digital—that prevent persons with disabilities from fully participating in education, employment, public life, and social engagement. Our work is guided by the belief that true inclusion can only be achieved when everyone, regardless of gender, disability, or location, has equitable access to opportunities and resources.

 

APNA brings together a diverse collective of women with disabilities, their allies, and technical experts who leverage lived experiences and professional expertise to drive systemic change. We advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities, promote women’s leadership, and work in partnership with governments, United Nations entities, civil society, and the private sector to make the right to accessibility real.

Mission

To achieve universal accessibility and disability-inclusive and gender-equal development across the Asian and Pacific region.

Vision

To create an inclusive Asia-Pacific region where universal accessibility is embedded in every aspect of society—physical, digital, social, and economic—ensuring that all persons with disabilities, particularly women and girls, can thrive and lead.

Our Focus

  • Enhancing physical and digital accessibility in infrastructure, public spaces, and online environments.
  • Promoting gender-responsive, life-cycle approaches in disability policies and programs.
  • Fostering women-led leadership within the disability rights movement.
  • Creating equitable opportunities for education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and decision-making at all levels.

Our Reach

APNA operates across the Asia-Pacific region, amplifying voices and building solutions that reflect diverse cultural, social, and economic contexts. We believe in the power of collaboration and strive to work hand-in-hand with partners to build accessible, inclusive societies where no one is left behind.