On the opening day of the World Congress 2025 “We Are Inclusion” in Sharjah, experts from across the globe united during the session titled “Making and Using Easy to Understand Formats” to deliver a powerful message of accessible information being a fundamental human right.


The main topic revolved around the “Easy Read” format, a global standard used in presenting information with clear, simple language supported by images, symbols, or illustrations. It is designed to make complex topics more accessible, especially for people with intellectual disabilities, limited literacy, or non-native language skills.


Global voices on accessibility

Shiva Shrestha of Nepal’s Parents Federation of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (PFPID) opened the dialogue by defining the core purpose of “Easy Read”; using clear, jargon-free language so everyone can understand and participate. “Through our work at PFPID, people with intellectual disabilities are involved in the development of materials for feedback and inclusion,” he stated, highlighting the importance of co-creation. He also emphasised the broad application of these tools, from healthcare and banks to transportation and leisure, noting that the digital age offers unprecedented tools to consume information at a comfortable speed. “The bottom line is that accessible information is our right,” he affirmed, “but also it lets us feel included and that our input is valued.”


The discussion then turned to the unique challenges of adapting these principles across languages and cultures. Mohammed Alnabelsi, an Arabic Easy to Read Certified Trainer at SCHS, explained the pioneering work done in the region. “In developing accessible material, we discovered there was a lack of standards that define the form of Arabic Easy Read,” he said, describing how his team helped form these essential guidelines. He pointed to the fine print in contracts as a metaphor for exclusion: “This must be how those self-advocates feel when they are given information that is not adapted to their needs.” As a dedicated trainer at SCHS’s Ajad Training Center, he revealed that they are now in the process of designing virtual training materials and publishing more documents and publications to open accessibility for all.


From Argentina, Paola Jelonche and Dominique Kantor of ‘Fundacion Visibilia’ detailed the three pillars of creating accessible information: linguistics, graphics, and, most importantly, validation from the intended audience. “Reading is a self-determination path and a path to freedom,” Jelonche proclaimed. “Comprehension opens the doors to participation and growth.” Dominique Kantor, a validator herself, powerfully articulated the personal impact: “How can I contribute and support my community if I don’t have access to information in a way I can understand?” She cited medical information as a key example of a fundamental right to understanding. “I find my work very rewarding,” she shared, “and it brings me joy to know I am helping to improve lives.”


Ronnie Sione of ‘People First New Zealand’ directly linked Easy Read to Article 9 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD); stating the importance of information for all. “If I didn’t have Easy Read I would be lost,” he stated plainly. “It enables me to make my own decisions.” He praised the format for using “mostly words I know,” with explanations for unfamiliar terms. His organisation’s “Make it Easy” service employs a team of skilled Easy Read translators, cementing the direct link between accessible information and self-advocacy.


Finally, Hiroshi Yamada from ‘People First Japan’ showcased how his team creates accessible videos and other materials; and discussed how important this is for expressing themselves clesrly. “To feel part of society, people with disabilities need to be able to share their voices, their opinions, and their votes,” he said, underscoring that inclusion in the democratic process is essential for full societal membership.

World Congress 2025 "We Are Inclusion" continues in Sharjah until 17 September, bringing together more than 500 participants from 74 countries, including 152 speakers representing 160 organisations, across 59 parallel sessions. Held for the first time in the MENA region and North Africa, the Congress is a leading global platform for sharing best practices and advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities. It is co-organised by Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services and Inclusion International, and in strategic partnership with the Sharjah Government Media Bureau.