The Global Alliance on Accessible Technologies and Environments (GAATES) is the leading international organization dedicated to the promotion of accessibility of the built and virtual environments and to promoting the Guiding Principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), adopted in December 2006.
Registered as a non-profit NGO in Canada, GAATES was incorporated in 2007 by an international consortium dedicated to promoting accessibility worldwide. GAATES has a global membership and an active presence in 6 regions: the Asia-Pacific, Arab, North America, South America, European and African Regions. This international perspective enables GAATES to develop collaborative partnerships with a wide range of grass roots and professional stakeholders, NGOs/DPOs civil society organizations, professional associations, private sector organizations and individuals interested in the Global Development Agenda and Universal Design.
GAATES obtained consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) in 2008.
Our 10th Anniversary Booklet that highlights initiatives since forming can be accessed here
For details on our Board, Country Representatives, and Management Team please click here
Mission
GAATES‘ mission is to lead in the promotion, understanding and implementation of accessibility of the sustainable built, social and virtual environments. This includes infrastructure design, transportation systems, urban environment, and information and communication technologies (ICT), ensuring that everyone, including people with disabilities and older persons, are able to fully participate and contribute to society.
Vision of Universal Design
Implementing Universal Design principles takes everybody into account and leads to fully inclusive and sustainable environments.
