European Commission Access City Award, Third Edition, 2013

On 22 May 2012 The European Commission launched the  third edition of “Access City Award”, an annual prize recognising and celebrating cities that are dedicated to providing an accessible environment for all, in particular, for persons with disabilities and people with reduced mobility.

The Access City Award was first launched in 2010 and the city of Avila won the prize. In 2011, 114 cities from 23 EU countries apply and the Award was finally given to Salzburg during a ceremony held in Brussels on 1 December 2011.

In line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, accessibility is one of the pillars of the European Union’s Disability Strategy 2010 - 2020 which aims at creating a barrier-free Europe for all: improved accessibility brings economic and social benefits to cities, especially in the context of demographic ageing.

Cities with at least 50,000 inhabitants have until 5 September 2012 to submit their candidacy for the award. A two phase selection will take place: a pre-selection at the national level followed by a final selection at the European level.

The jury will particularly pay attention at the impact of accessibility measures on the everyday life of people with disabilities and the city as a whole, considering the quality and sustainability of the results achieved. Cities will also have to demonstrate active involvement of persons with disabilities and their representative organizations in the planning and implementation of the city’s accessibility policies.

Beside the prize, there will be given special “mentions” to cities which have achieved notable successes and results regarding accessibility.

Click here for more information regarding the competition

Moreover you can consult ENAT Accessible Cities' website