Asia and the Pacific region is at the crossroads of demographic and digital transformations. Addressing the digital divide is more urgent than ever as the population of Asia and the Pacific ages, and age-related disabilities increase. As we approach the International Day of Persons with Disabilities this Insight Thursday event will spotlight the essential role, and urgency of digital accessibility in reducing inequality and improving outcomes for people with disabilities.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed annually to foster greater understanding of disability-related issues and to encourage support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of people with disabilities.  

This Insight Thursday will deep dive into the enabling levers for a digital-first, disability inclusive, future in Asia and the Pacific.  Catherine Holloway, Academic Director from the Global Disability Innovation (GDI) Hub at the University College, London will outline emerging opportunities and innovations in digital inclusion. With a focus on public policy, infrastructure, health and education, Cathy will spotlight future opportunities across the ADB sectoral portfolio. Leading the question-and-answer session, Director of the Digital Sector Department, Antonio G. Zaballos, will respond and set the scene for audience discussions.

An estimated 16% of the world’s population experience significant disability. Yet people with disabilities are excluded from many of the advances in digital technology. As technology rapidly changes with advances in artificial intelligence, big data and online platforms, low digital literacy and inaccessible digital design reduce the ability of many people with disabilities to participate in an online world. Gaps in digital and data infrastructure in developing member countries (DMCs) further limit equitable access to online information and opportunities. Digital exclusion reinforces the barriers to education, healthcare, employment, and financial services that drive poverty, deepening inequality and leading to worse health, education and economic outcomes.  

Come along or listen to learn about future opportunities for digital inclusion in ADBs work. This is an online event and will be conducted via Zoom. More details will be available soon.