Organization
Belize Assembly for Persons with Diverse Abilities(BAPDA)
BAPDA is Belize's national disabled-led umbrella organisation, advocating for the rights and full inclusion of persons with diverse abilities across the country. Led by a volunteer Board of Directors who are themselves people with disabilities, it distributes National Disability Identification Cards, lobbies government on accessibility, and partners with international networks to advance disability rights in Belize.
About
The Belize Assembly for Persons with Diverse Abilities (BAPDA) is a national non-profit organisation led by a Board of Directors whose members are people with disabilities. Its vision is a Belize that is responsive to and inclusive of the rights of persons with diverse abilities so that they may live full and healthy lives.
What They Do
BAPDA distributes National Disability Identification Cards (since 2019), advocates with government and private sector for accessible infrastructure and services, and participates in policy consultations including the Disabilities Act signed into law in 2024. It partners with Disabled Peoples' International North America and the Caribbean and has championed accessible public transportation, hailing the introduction of electric buses in Belize City as a landmark accessibility win in 2024.
Who They Serve
BAPDA serves all persons with disabilities in Belize regardless of disability type, providing advocacy, identification services, and a collective voice at national level. Its disabled-led governance model ensures the organisation is directly accountable to the community it represents.
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