In September 2023, Marijn and Glorian from Konekt attended the 14th EAMHID Congress in Helsinki (Finland). Their mission was to assess the inclusion of the event and gather insights for the upcoming EAMHID 2025 Congress in Ghent.
Upon arrival, Marijn and Glorian observed several areas where inclusion could be improved. They came to the conclusion technical language made keynotes and posters less accessible to attendees with intellectual disabilities. Additionally, physical accessibility was a concern. For instance, while the venue was wheelchair accessible, the stage was not, preventing full participation. These observations highlighted the need for more comprehensive accessibility planning in future events.
Another insight was the limited presence and involvement of people with disabilities. Despite the congress focusing on mental health and intellectual disabilities, there was minimal representation of the very individuals the discussions centered around. This highlighted the necessity of active involvement of people with disabilities in both the planning and execution of such events to ensure their voices are heard and valued.
Marijn and Glorian at EAMHID 2023 in Helsinki
The insights gained from Helsinki have been instrumental in shaping the approach for EAMHID 2025 in Ghent. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment by simplifying language, enhancing physical accessibility, and ensuring active participation of individuals with disabilities throughout the congress. By addressing these areas, the goal is to create a truly inclusive and representative event that embodies the principles of “nothing about us without us.”
