Key Takeaways
- Commissioner Lahbib addressed the 30th anniversary of the EASPD in Brussels on 5 October 2026.
- The speech acknowledged three decades of advocacy pushing the European Commission to improve disability support.
- The event highlights ongoing EU efforts to advance social inclusion and implement the European Disability Strategy.
Marking a significant milestone in European social policy, European Commission representatives gathered in Brussels on 5 October 2026 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the European Association of Service Providers for People with Disabilities (EASPD). According to the European Commission, Commissioner Lahbib delivered a keynote address acknowledging three decades of dedicated support for people with disabilities, while specifically commending the organisation for consistently pushing the Commission to enhance its legislative and practical commitments. This anniversary arrives as the European Union continues to advance its broader European Disability Strategy, aiming to ensure full social and economic inclusion across member states. The work of service providers remains vital for bridging the gap between high-level EU single market and social rights frameworks—such as the European Pillar of Social Rights—and the lived realities of citizens requiring specialised care, accessibility, and employment support across national jurisdictions. Looking ahead, policymakers and civil society organisations face mounting pressure to translate long-term inclusion goals into tangible outcomes, particularly regarding independent living and workforce integration. Stakeholders anticipate further EU-level evaluations and funding strategies in the coming months to support service providers in adapting to evolving demographic and economic demands.
Source: European Commission. Read the original report ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What organisation celebrated its 30th anniversary in Brussels?
The European Association of Service Providers for People with Disabilities (EASPD) celebrated its anniversary.
Who delivered the address on behalf of the European Commission?
Commissioner Lahbib delivered the speech at the event.