First Conference for Disability Representatives Held in Vienna

On March 24, 2025, the Fraktion Christlicher Gewerkschafter:innen im ÖGB (FCG) organized the inaugural conference for disability representatives in Vienna. This significant event attracted over 100 disability representatives from across Austria, who gathered to discuss current challenges and potential solutions for fostering a more inclusive work environment.

The Federal Chairperson of FCG and Vice President of ÖGB, Romana Deckenbacher, welcomed the attendees and expressed appreciation for their commitment to promoting a more equitable society. She acknowledged the diverse challenges faced by the community, which include issues related to accessibility in both physical and digital spaces, as well as the need for tailored workplace adaptations, flexible working hours, and increased awareness among colleagues.

The conference featured a lineup of esteemed experts who provided valuable insights. Among the speakers were Michael Pichler from the Essl Foundation/Zero Project Austria, Nico Forchthammer, known as the "Biking Viking," Christine Steger from the Federal Disability Advocate's Office, Gerald Nimführ from GÖD, who heads the Disability, Health, and Law department, as well as Beate Stocker and Herbert Valentan from ARGE BVP.

In her closing remarks, Deckenbacher highlighted FCG's long-term commitment to ensuring that individuals, regardless of their physical or health challenges, can fully realize their talents and skills. She stated the organization aims for a workplace that leaves no one behind, emphasizing that this conference marks a first step in a series of initiatives and events to come, under the banner of "FAIR in DIALOGUE - STRONG in the MATTER."