Organization
Union of Disabled People in Bulgaria(UDPB)
The Union of Disabled People in Bulgaria (UDPB) is one of the country's oldest disability organisations, founded in December 1989 and now uniting over 319 local associations across 203 municipalities with more than 72,000 members. It represents and upholds the interests of people with all types of disabilities before state and public bodies throughout Bulgaria.
About
Established in Sofia on 15 December 1989 at the start of Bulgaria's democratic transition, the Union of Disabled People in Bulgaria (UDPB) is a democratically run, independent non-governmental organisation and a recognised national representative body. It is a member of the European Disability Forum (EDF) and maintains a network of 319 local organisations across all 203 municipalities in Bulgaria.
What They Do
UDPB represents and advocates for the rights and interests of people with disabilities before national and local government, public institutions, and international bodies. The Union promotes accessible environments and inclusive public services, supports local associations in their advocacy work, and engages in dialogue with the National Council for Rehabilitation and Social Integration. It also provides peer support, information services, and referrals.
Who They Serve
People with a wide range of disabilities including physical, sensory (blind and deaf), and other impairments across Bulgaria. With over 72,000 members when associated organisations are included, UDPB is the broadest community-based disability network in the country.
Related Organizations
National Federation of the Blind(NFB)
FeaturedBaltimore, MDNationalThe NFB is the largest organisation of blind people in the US, with over 50,000 members organised in chapters in all 50 states. Led entirely by blind people, NFB is known for its strong civil rights stance, its flagship Jernigan Institute, and landmark accessibility litigation including the Target.com lawsuit.
Disabled-LedBlind / Low VisionAdvocacyAmerican Council of the Blind(ACB)
Alexandria, VANationalACB is a national membership organisation of blind and low-vision Americans that promotes independence, security, equality of opportunity, and quality of life for all people who are blind or visually impaired. It operates numerous special-interest affiliates and coordinates a broad network of state and local chapters.
Disabled-LedBlind / Low VisionAdvocacyAmerican Foundation for the Blind(AFB)
New York, NYNationalAFB is a national non-profit that works to create a society where people who are blind or visually impaired can achieve equality in access and opportunity. Best known for the AccessWorld technology review publication, AFB was also Helen Keller's employer for over 40 years.
Professional-LedBlind / Low VisionAdvocacy