A compelling case study from Medellín, Colombia, highlights a successful approach to inclusive infrastructure in informal urban settings, particularly for people with disabilities (PWDs). Under the AT2030 program led by the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) and funded by UK Aid, Medellín’s project aimed to make its rapidly urbanising environments more accessible to all. Medellín has long been a leader in innovative urban projects, such as cable cars and escalators connecting hillside communities, but the recent initiative has expanded this vision to prioritise inclusive design for accessibility, specifically targeting the needs of approximately 80,000 residents with disabilities.
The project took a multi-phase approach, beginning with desk research and interviews to map accessibility needs, followed by on-the-ground engagement, including photo diaries, co-design workshops, and thematic analysis to develop actionable recommendations. These sessions helped Medellín incorporate inclusive design into public spaces, transport options, and green spaces, directly engaging PWDs in the process. Notably, the project facilitated the establishment of local advocacy and accountability structures to ensure that PWDs had a voice in city planning, exemplifying how participatory, community-led approaches can drive inclusivity in urban spaces.
For further details, you can read about the project and its outcomes on the AT2030 website here | The Journal of Public Space .