The Global Disability Summit (GDS) 2025 was the world’s most important political forum for the rights of persons with disabilities. On 2 and 3 April 2025, the summit took place in Germany for the first time – in Berlin, jointly organised by the German Federal Government, Jordan and the International Disability Alliance (IDA). The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) was responsible for its implementation.

The summit followed the guiding principle of ‘Nothing about us without us’. The aim was to accelerate the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, translate political commitments into concrete measures and anchor inclusion as a cross-cutting task of international development cooperation. At the same time, the GDS 2025 was intended to set new standards for accessible conferences – in terms of content, organisation and technology.

Over 4,700 participants from around 160 countries made the summit one of the largest international forums for inclusion and accessibility. Complete accessibility was required in all dimensions – spatial, technical, digital and communicative. This included simultaneous translations on five parallel stages with up to 14 language channels per stage, including sign language channels, accessible walkways, entrances and exits, sanitary facilities for 450 wheelchair users, accessible apps, presentations and live interpreting. At the same time, a comprehensive security concept had to be implemented for international delegations, including Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz and His Majesty King Abdullah II Ibn Al-Hussein of Jordan.

POOLcrew supported the entire project process – from strategic planning, core messages and design line to conference architecture for an international audience. In collaboration with Jung von Matt, an international campaign was developed that strengthened awareness, reach and public perception of the summit.

Other tasks included service provider management, an action plan for complete accessibility, and the development of a volunteer programme in cooperation with Special Olympics Germany. The accessible room design included furniture, signage and sanitary facilities. Working closely with advocacy groups for people with disabilities, the crew ensured that all inclusive standards were consistently implemented.

In addition, stage, event and room concepts were developed, a participant and accreditation tool was implemented, and logistics solutions for delegations and guests (shuttles, limousines, public transport tickets) were organised. The POOLcrew also implemented a sustainable catering concept and took charge of all security measures. The planning and implementation of an inclusive closing event rounded off the scope of services.

Delegations, experts and interest groups found a highly professional platform for political commitments, exchange and decision-making. People with and without disabilities from over 160 countries were able to participate on an equal footing, access content without barriers, get involved and network. Simultaneous translation, barrier-free access and digital tools were perceived as innovative and exemplary worldwide. Sustainability, accessibility and personal support characterised the experience.

The GDS 2025 set measurable standards for accessible large-scale events. With the Amman-Berlin Declaration (‘15% for 15%’) and over 800 international commitments from states, organisations and civil society, the summit also became a milestone in terms of content. For delegations, it was an effective platform for political decisions and international cooperation; for participants, it was an inclusive forum that enabled equal participation.

POOLcrew combined strategic planning, communication and operational implementation to create a coherent overall picture – a summit that shows that inclusion is not a measure, but a lived attitude.