- Belgium
European Union of the Deaf (EUD)
Established in 1985, the European Union of the Deaf (EUD) is the only supranational organization that represents the interests of deaf people at the European level. EUD is one of the few European Non-Governmental Organizations (ENGOs), comprising associations from all 27 EU Member States, as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. The main objective of the EUD is to establish and maintain a dialogue at EU level with relevant institutions and officials, in consultation and cooperation with its member National Associations of the Deaf (NADs).
EUD is a full member of the European Disability Forum (EDF) and a regional associate of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) to address issues of global importance. The organization also has participating status in the Council of Europe (CoE).
EUD is a recipient of the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme. The CERV program aims to support and develop open, rights-based, democratic, equal and inclusive societies based on the rule of law. This includes an active and empowered civil society, promoting people's democratic, civic and social participation, as well as developing the rich diversity of European society based on our common values, history and memory.
EUD's vision is that deaf people across Europe have equality in both public and private aspects of life. The main goals that the organization wants to realize include: recognizing the right to use local sign language, providing opportunities for empowerment through communication and information, and equality in education and employment.
