The “ILO Global Business and Disability Network 4th annual meeting and “National Business and Disability Networks ways forward for international collaboration” was held at the ILO Head Quarters in Geneva, Switzerland in October 2017. Ms. Manique Gunaratne of The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon, Specialised Training & Disability Resource Centre made a presentation on “Activities of the Employers’ Network on Disability – Sri Lanka” at this event.
The ILO (International Labour Organisation) GBDN (Global Business and Disability Network) is a unique employers-led worldwide
Network of multinational companies, national employers’
Organizations, business networks and disabled people
Organizations (DPOs) working in collaboration to promote
The inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workplace.
This year’s annual meeting highlighted the importance of
Digital accessibility for business success, showcase how skills
Gaps can be addressed by promoting disability-inclusive
Practices and provide a rare opportunity to exchange
Experiences and network among disability champions from
The private sector. During the meeting, there was also a
Welcome ceremony for the new members of the network.
There are National Business and Disability Networks (NBDNs) in over twenty countries. Many of these are developing or newly established. The ILO hosted this meeting to bring the networks and other international organizations together for the first time. Through both online and physical participation, NBDNs from all over the world shared their status, challenges and future plans.
Together with members of the ILO Global Business and Disability Network (GBDN) and other key stakeholders, the meeting identified key issues to be addressed and points for collaboration. The meeting was particularly focused on supporting newly-established networks in developing countries.
Technical sessions covered:
- Understanding the current situation of National and Business and Disability Networks around the world.
- Technical support to national networks: what exists and what is needed in the future.
- Allies and Advocacy: working with other stakeholders and influencing the enabling environment
- Way forward for collaboration between national networks.
Picture description for vision impaired persons:
1 Day 1 Manique with the banner.
2 Day 1 conference.
3 Day 1 Manique and Federica.
4 Day 1 group photograph.
5 Day 1 Manique.
6 Day 2 Manique with the participants.
7 Day 2 Manique at conference.
8 Day 2 Manique making presentation.
9 Manique with the ILO flags.
10 GBDN steering committee meeting.
11 Manique at United Nations.
12 United Nations.
Manique Gunaratne
Viber: 0094779571918
