Social Aspects

The accessible design of events is necessary for some participants, helpful for others and convenient for a large proportion. Ultimately, all participants benefit from an accessible event.

An event is barrier-free if it is accessible and usable for all participants in the usual way, without any particular difficulty and generally without outside help. All participants can reach and use all location areas relevant to the event and take part in all activities. When planning an accessible event, mobility, location, communication, catering and accommodation must be considered.

For the Austrian Ecolabel for Green Meetings & Green Events, an accessibility statement must be drawn up and made available to all participants. The statement describes the accessibility and any restrictions for participants with disabilities in all areas of the event. For example, the Barrier Check of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber and the ÖZIV - Federal Association for People with Disabilities can be used for this purpose.

Participants with disabilities (mobility impairments, chronic illnesses, as well as hearing and visual impairments) are supported according to their special requirements and these barrier-free considerations are specifically communicated to the public at the earliest possible stage.

Such consdierations may include the following:

• The contact of the person responsible for offering support is visibly listed when the event is advertised.
• A need for support is asked about upon registration.
• Suitable accommodation options are offered.
• Special information systems are offered (e.g. sign language interpreters, braille lettering, accessible documents).
• Assisting persons obtain free entry.
• Any other required support is offered.

Gender mainstreaming and diversity aim to promote equal opportunities and inclusion in all areas of society by taking into account the different needs, perspectives and potential of people regardless of gender, origin or identity.

Ideas and tips for how to consider gender mainstreaming and diversity at events could include the following:

• Attention is paid to gender-neutral wordings.
• Attention is paid to gender balance when it comes to moderators and speakers.
• Further diversity aspects are discussed / addressed.
• There are special considerations for families and single parents (e.g. childcare, reduced tickets for single days of an event, etc.)

Regional culture and nature programmes offer added value for events - they are genuine encounters that enable participants to get to know the region, its people and its stories.

The event supports social or cultural initiatives, or offers a platform to present them.

Practical tip: The Convention4u organised by the Austrian Convention Bureau is a supporter of the local association “Herzkinder Linz”, which supports children with serious illnesses. Participants who donated to this received a stamp pass that they could fill in at various stations during the conference. This playful approach encouraged interaction and a sense of community among the participants.

Special measures are also offered for other groups of people if they are appropriate for the event:

• Special offers for senior citizens
• Special intercultural measures
• Reductions for students
• Further offers