Barrier-free Valais: Forum calls for inclusion in tourism!

Barrier-free Valais: Forum calls for inclusion in tourism!

On May 27, 2025, over 250 experts met at the Emera-HESSO Forum in Sierre to discuss the challenges in the area of ​​accessibility in tourism. The aim of the event was to improve the accessibility of tourist offers in Valais. The forum was organized by the Emera Foundation in cooperation with the University of Economics (HEG) and the tourism course at HES-SO Valais-Wallis. The theme of the forum, “Challenges and Prospects of Inclusive Tourism”, highlights an increasingly important aspect of society.

The UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities (CRPD) has been in force in Switzerland for 11 years and obliges states to provide barrier-free access to cultural, sporting and leisure activities, including tourism. This standard is crucial because it ensures access to guaranteed rights for around 1 billion people with disabilities worldwide BMAS reported.

Challenges in the tourism sector

The shortcomings in the area of ​​accessibility are diverse. It was found that accessibility services do not receive enough support, information about them is difficult to find or scattered, and many actors in the tourism sector have insufficient knowledge of the topic. Demographic change and the aging population require greater efforts towards social inclusion.

The cantonal government has already taken an active role in promoting the living conditions of people with disabilities. Especially in Valais, where tourism is a central pillar of the economy, it is essential to create inclusive offers that are accessible to everyone.

Positive approaches and future perspectives

Positive examples from sports for the disabled, public transport and events were presented at the forum. Innovative accommodation and accompanying offers were also highlighted as best practices. These examples show that inclusive tourism is not only possible, but also has significant development potential.

A central conclusion of the forum was the need for a comprehensive, barrier-free infrastructure in Valais. It was emphasized that accessibility of information plays a crucial role and that professionals should be trained or trained in this area. However, accessibility does not just mean removing structural barriers, but also improving the attitude and experience of guests.

The BRK provides the framework for these developments by specifying the rights of people with disabilities and defining measures for equal opportunities. The concept of participation is broken down into different areas of life, which supports the structuring of objectives in order to promote better integration of all people.

In summary, both local actors and international agreements such as the UN CRPD must make a significant contribution to creating barrier-free tourism. This is the only way to overcome social challenges and create an inclusive society for everyone.