The World Blind Union (WBU) is an international nonprofit organization registered in Canada, dedicated to representing and advocating for the estimated 253 million people worldwide who are blind or partially sighted. It serves as the global voice for the blind community, working in cooperation with its members to influence governments, international agencies, and other stakeholders on issues concerning blindness and low vision[1][2][4].

History

The WBU was established in 1984 through the merger of two predecessor organizations: the International Federation of the Blind and the World Council for the Welfare of the Blind. This union aimed to consolidate efforts to promote the rights and well-being of blind and partially sighted persons globally[1][3][5].

Mission and Vision

The World Blind Union's mission is to empower blind and partially sighted people to participate fully and equally in all aspects of life. It seeks to eliminate prejudice against blind individuals, promote recognition of their abilities, and achieve their full inclusion in society. The WBU operates as a non-political, non-religious, non-governmental, and non-profit organization[1][2].

The vision of the WBU is to create a world where blind and partially sighted people can participate on an equal basis in any aspect of life they choose. To this end, the organization strives to be recognized as the authentic international voice representing blind persons, to build the capacity of its members, to support accessibility globally, and to serve as a reliable source of information on vision impairment[2].

Structure and Membership

The WBU encompasses major national and international organizations of blind persons as well as service providers for people with low vision. It is organized into six global regions, each with its own president and volunteer executive team that addresses regional needs[2]. Membership is open to qualifying national blindness organizations from around the world. The governance and membership rights are detailed in the WBU constitution, which ensures all members can freely express their views without fear of reprisal[1][2].

Activities and Advocacy

The WBU engages in capacity building, leadership development, braille literacy promotion, and empowerment initiatives, particularly supporting women, youth, and indigenous blind persons. It advocates for issues such as accessibility, technology, mobility, and transportation. The organization also collaborates with international bodies, including holding consultative status with United Nations agencies and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)[1][5].

Notably, in 2016, the WBU co-sponsored a joint assembly with the International Council for Education of People with Visual Impairment in Orlando, Florida. This event facilitated information sharing and inter-organizational cooperation at the global level[1].

Impact

The WBU has played a critical role in shaping international disability rights frameworks, including contributing significantly to the development and monitoring of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Standard Rules for Equalization of Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities. It emphasizes that blind and low vision persons themselves must be the primary advocates for their rights and needs[5].

Business Registration Number: 855471587RR0001
Country: Canada

The World Blind Union continues to be a leading force in promoting equality, accessibility, and empowerment for blind and partially sighted individuals worldwide.