Report on ICT Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities International Communication Union

Abstract

This document of the International Telecommunication Union is the outcome Report of the Rapporteur’s group led by Clara Luz Alvarez (2006- 2010) of study question 20/1 on ICT accessibility by persons with disabilities. ICTs have an impact in almost every aspect of life; as such, are considered an instrument for productivity, economic growth, employment generation, good government, dialogue between persons and nations, as well as for improving the quality of life. This document is based on the decision of the ITU Council to approve that the subject for the World Telecommunications and Information Society Day (May 17) of 2008 be “Connecting People with Disabilities: ICT Opportunities for All”. Hence, it was determined that each type of disability may require special considerations when designing an ICT public policy. The document presents different types of assistive devices, revises special legislation in several countries and poses some useful policy recommendations for the nations on the matter.