The EU is uniquely positioned to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). With established support systems and thousands of proven practices across Member States, the challenge is to ensure that the policy and legal framework, the mainstream and specialised services on the ground, the economic and funding environment all adapt to fully reflect the UNCRPD. Building on what has worked best in the first phase of the Strategy, EASPD’s proposals for the next phase focus on turning good practice into good policy, and good policy into effective, rights-based support systems across Europe. This paper highlights key areas where the European Union (EU) can build on its existing strengths, focusing on measures that advance autonomy, inclusion, and equality.

Our contribution follows the structure of the current Strategy, addressing its key areas with practical recommendations drawn from the realities of support provision across Europe.

Read the position paper

Citation:

EASPD. (2026). Second phase of the strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities
2021 - 2030.

Authors:

Irene Bertana, Head of Policy, irene.bertana@easpd.eu

Date:

Brussels, February 2026