Latest news

With a new IF statement, IF stands as a precursor with its long-time focus on rehabilitation. Indeed, almost thirty years ago, IF contacted the World Health Organization and proposed to work together for producing a guide for mid-level rehabilitation workers, to be used for children with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (SBH).

In an upcoming statement, IF calls for a greater awareness and urgent action towards the needs of persons with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (SBH) in time of conflict and humanitarian crisis. According to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), a humanitarian crisis includes man-made conflict, natural disasters or pandemics – or all of them. This raises concerns on human-rights and exacerbate pre-existing human rights vulnerabilities, especially for persons with disabilities.

On November 6 2023, Dr Sylvia Roozen - Secretary General of the International Federation for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus emphasised in her keynote address the important role ICBDSR members have on surveillance research to inform NTD Prevention & Care.

The WSBHD23 Conference brought together global communities to raise awareness about Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus. IF members from the regions Africa, Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe shared their vision of “Accessibility4All” for this year’s WSBHD23! 

On September 16 2023, IF youth member LauraRosillo Beneyto represented the global disability community on behalf of IF and IDA at the youth pillar "Torchbearers for the SDGs: Meaningful Youth Engagement & the 2030 Agenda" during the SDG Action Weekend as part of the SDG Summit at the UN Headquarter in New York. Re-watch the speech by Laura here!

Today, the Commission has proposed the introduction of a European Disability Card as well as the enhancement of the current European Parking Card for persons with disabilities. Both cards will be recognised all across the EU and make it easier for persons with disabilities to travel across the European Union.