PUBLIC POLICY & COLLABORATIONS

The Public Policy & Collaborations vertical advances disability inclusion by translating field-based evidence into policies, partnerships and systemic action. By combining APD's on-ground experience with research, technology and multi-stakeholder collaboration, the vertical works with governments, academic institutions, industry, civil society, and international organisations to strengthen inclusive governance and institutional accountability.

Through initiatives such as Yes to Access (YTA), the vertical generates evidence, develops practical knowledge resources, informs policy dialogue, and supports governments and institutions in embedding accessibility and disability inclusion into planning, implementation, and decision-making. It also convenes national and global stakeholders to accelerate collaborative action, ensuring that accessibility moves beyond compliance to become a measurable, data-driven, and integral component of inclusive development.

Key Areas of Work
  • Evidence for Policy: Generating research and citizen-led data to inform evidence-based policymaking.
  • Government Partnerships: Supporting governments to integrate accessibility into planning, budgeting, and public systems.
  • Knowledge & Capacity Building: Developing practical resources, toolkits, and training modules for public and private institutions.
  • Policy Dialogue & Advocacy: Convening policymakers, academia, industry, and civil society to advance disability-inclusive policies.
  • Technology & Innovation: Leveraging AI and digital platforms to scale accessibility assessments and strengthen governance.
  • Strategic Collaborations: Building partnerships across national and international organisations to drive systemic change.
  • "Yes To Access"

    The "Yes To Access" project is an initiative by the Association of People with Disability (APD) aimed at promoting inclusivity and accessibility in public spaces for individuals with disabilities. A central component of this project is the "Yes To Access" mobile application, designed to facilitate comprehensive accessibility evaluations of public facilities. By leveraging technology and volunteer mobilisation, the "Yes To Access" project aims to break barriers and promote the development of inclusive public spaces, ensuring equal access for all individuals. For more details, please visit the website: www.yestoaccess.in