Digitizing a more inclusive future

Zhao Chen, a UNICEF youth advocate, was unable to return to Beijing this winter due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but he has been paying close attention to the development of disability inclusivity in China, which has been further spurred by the Paralympic Winter Games.

Currently pursuing higher education in the United States, Zhao completed his elementary and secondary schooling in Beijing. He is visually impaired, having lost most of his eyesight at the age of 10 due to retinal detachment and other ailments.

He believes as long as people with disabilities can use screen-reading software and other assistance devices, they should be able to learn just like him in regular schools.

"The Paralympics help promote disability inclusivity, giving more people a better understanding of those with disabilities," Zhao told Xinhua in a telephone interview.

"I went through a tough time after losing my eyesight at the age of 10.Thanks to my parents and psychologist, I was able to face life with optimism," he said.

In 2008, the year Beijing hosted the Summer Olympics and Paralympics, Zhao moved to the Chinese capital to attend an elementary school.

"The Games accelerated the building of barrier-free facilities in the city, making it easier and safer for people with disabilities to move around alone," Zhao said.

He has vivid memories of his middle-school life. He was quite involved in extracurricular activities which included the school choir, radio station and literary club, where he made many friends, discovered new hobbies and regained his confidence.

"It is the development of digital technology and networking platforms in China that have enabled people with disabilities like myself to actively access information, as opposed to passively learning about the world through television and radio," Zhao said.

In the Beijing 2022 Main Media Center, an LED screen connected with an intelligent platform shows visitors how to find barrier-free routes in the venues. Facilities such as barrier-free ramps, elevators, toilets, seats and dining tables ensure convenience for people with disabilities, which are expected to be further expanded for public use after the event.

"We need an inclusive society, where the needs of people with disabilities can be better understood, and everyone can have equal access to social life. This is my aspiration and also our common goal," said Zhao, who was appointed as a youth advocate in 2021 by UNICEF China.

"I have witnessed the development of digital technology and the improvement of digital rights for people with disabilities," he added.

In October 2021, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, China's top legislature, ratified the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Impaired or Otherwise Print Disabled.

The treaty, which will come into effect in China in May, is expected to make it easier for people with visual impairments to obtain specially adapted books.

"The implementation of the treaty can further help the visually impaired in gaining access to electronic copyright of books, music scores and other published works, allowing us to experience this vibrant world much more easily with the help of screen-reading software," Zhao said.

Xinhua