The Global Disability Summit 2025 in Berlin

ByKarina Sturm November 19, 2025May 11, 2026

Several people on the stage of the Global Disability Summit in Berlin. One woman with a bright orange suit is speaking with a sign language interpreter on screen and a written transcript in front of a filled hall.

In April 2025, GADIM headed to the Global Disability Summit in Berlin to talk to attendees about their perspectives on disability advocacy. Co-hosted by Germany, Jordan, and the International Disability Alliance, the 2025 Global Disability Summit brought together 4,700 participants from more than 160 countries to advance disability inclusion around the world. Listen as GDS attendees share their perspectives on barriers to access, representation in media, and their hopes for disability inclusion in the future.

Audio Description by Social Audio Description Collective. Written by Cheryl Green. Blind QC by Robert Kingett. Narrated by Cheryl Green.

Video by Karina Sturm and Lucas Fuchs.

Karina Sturm

Karina studied journalism in Edinburgh, Scotland. With a focus on medicine, science, chronic illness, and disability, she writes academic articles for journals, feature articles, and reports for various German and American newspapers, and blogs passionately on her bilingual blog. Karina loves dogs, heavy metal, the ocean, and food from around the world.

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The Global Disability Summit 2025 in Berlin

How Rebecca Yarros’ “Fourth Wing” Gets Disability Representation

Disney’s Illusion of Inclusion: Sign Language Is Not an Add-On

“People or Props Tool” Helps Filmmakers Identify and Cast Off Ableist Narratives About Disability

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The German Film “Luisa” Reveals Common Threat in Institutions For Disabled Women: Sexual Violence

“Expanding What’s Possible:” Disney’s “Songs in Sign Language” Debuts April 27th

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