Petra Hedorfer, CEO of the GNTB, emphasized the importance of accessibility within their sustainability strategy, which encompasses socially responsible tourism products alongside climate and environmentally friendly travel.
She highlighted advancements in digital transformation, such as the planned integration of barrier-free offerings into the GNTB Knowledge Graph, as pivotal in enhancing Germany’s appeal as an inclusive travel destination.
The event will commence with opening remarks from key political figures, including Dieter Janecek, the Federal Government Commissioner for Tourism; Jürgen Dusel, the Federal Government Commissioner for the Interests of People with Disabilities; and André Nowak, spokesperson for the Tourism Working Group at the German Disability Council.
A keynote address will be delivered by Lina Mazhar Annab, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Jordan, followed by insights from Kristy Durso, TravelAbility Ambassador, Wheel the World Partner, and founder of the Accessible Travel Network.
Subsequent sessions will feature international experts from Germany, Croatia, and Jordan, presenting best practices from their respective countries.
A panel discussion titled ‘Accessible Tourism in 10 Years’ will engage representatives from UN Tourism, the European Network for Accessible Tourism (ENAT), Pro Bahn, the World Sustainable Hospitality Alliance, and Sozialverband VdK Deutschland.
Topics will encompass the evolution of accessible tourism, technological advancements, and the role of policy in fostering inclusivity.
Anna Graf from Arvato Systems is set to discuss the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence presents for accessibility. Sven Niklas from the Federal Centre for Accessibility will elucidate the implications of the Accessibility Reinforcement Act, while Isabella Hren from Bayern Tourist GmbH will explore future prospects of the ‘Travel for All’ certification.
The program also includes a panel on inclusive travel for children and young people, addressing the unique needs and opportunities in this sector.
Additionally, there will be a presentation focusing on barrier-free nature experiences, highlighting initiatives that make natural landscapes accessible to all.
The 13th Accessible Tourism Day is organized by the GNTB in collaboration with the state working group ‘Tourism for All,’ the working group ‘Easier Travel – Barrier-free Holiday Destinations in Germany,’ and the Tourism Working Group of the German Disability Council (DBR).
The event is sponsored by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection and supported by Messe Berlin/ITB.
Participants can attend the event in person or virtually, with provisions for German and English simultaneous translation, as well as sign language and written interpreters. On-site attendees are required to have an ITB ticket, while online participation is free of charge.
This initiative underscores Germany’s commitment to promoting accessible tourism, ensuring that travel experiences are inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of physical abilities.
Tags: Petra Hedorfer, GNTB, ITB Berlin, 13th Accessible Tourism Day
