It is a pleasure to be here to conclude this important conference. I have been closely following your work and that of the Disability Platform.

Your dedication to improving the lives of persons with disabilities is inspiring. Your work expands their rights and offers more opportunities. The ideas and promises from these sessions are clear proof of this.

I am encouraged by the progress we are making to ensure that people with disabilities are fully integrated into our societies. We see concrete actions and initiatives under the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

I would like to briefly share my thoughts on the three areas discussed.

First, people with disabilities have enormous talent and potential to strengthen our workplaces. We need to tap into this potential and spread the message loud and clear.

I have heard inspiring success stories that bring the unique talents and skills of persons with disabilities to life. Employment is more than a paycheck — its a doorway to inclusion, independence, and equal opportunity.

However, there are still too many obstacles holding them back, from physical inaccessibility to negative stereotypes. We need to tear down these barriers and urge employers across Europe to create not just accessible but truly inclusive workplaces.

The only way to unlock the full potential of persons with disabilities is by prioritizing accessibility, investing in necessary accommodations, and creating environments where everyone can thrive.

Second, harmful stereotypes are holding us back, including in the media. We need to fight these whenever they appear. Todays conversations have shown the importance of accurately representing persons with disabilities in the media — as individuals with hopes, dreams, and ambitions.

We need more positive, realistic, and diverse portrayals of disability across all media — in film, television, advertising, and social media. When persons with disabilities are seen as active participants in society, it breaks down barriers and fosters acceptance and respect.

Our third focus area is independent living. Persons with disabilities have the right to live independently, which is central to human dignity. This means having the resources, support, and autonomy to live life on their own terms.

Independent living is not just about providing services. It is about creating an environment where they can make their own decisions and fully participate in society.

The European Union continues to work towards the full implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. We also continue to push for policies and programs that promote greater independence, including investing in accessible housing and support services.

I want to thank you for sharing your ideas for improving the lives of persons with disabilities. Your work — our joint work — helps build a fairer, more inclusive, and diverse Union. A true Union of Equality.

The challenges are great, but so is our power to change things for the better. When we stand together — governments, civil society, businesses, and individuals — we can build a Europe where every person is seen, valued, and empowered to fulfill their potential. This is not a distant dream. With courage, this can be our future tomorrow. Lets build this brighter, more inclusive future together. You can count on me.