50 European cities competed to receive the 2021 Access City Award, given by the European Commission, and this year’s award goes to the Swedish city of Jönköping.
The city was chosen for its inclusive work and strength of collaboration with disability organizations in implementing the best practices that would improve accessibility to everyone. The Winner of the 11th Access City Award announced on December 1 at the online ceremony
“Creating a barrier-free Europe is about more than buildings and pavements. It is about commitment to change that improves people’s quality of life and enables persons with disabilities to participate in society on an equal basis. Accessibility is important for everyone, and it is indispensable for persons with disabilities.” Said Announcing the winner, Commissioner for Equality, Helena Dalli.
The city of Bremerhaven in Germany and Gdynia’s city in Poland are the second and third place winners of the 2021 Access City Award.
The Access City Award is organised by the European Commission together with the European Disability Forum, and is one of the actions of the EU Disability Strategy 2010-2020.
The Access City Award was launched in 2010 to raise awareness of disability and promote accessibility initiatives in European cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants. The prize is about ensuring equal access to city life for people with disabilities.