Accessibility Is Freedom

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Articles

  • Thai PBS Highlights Aging Society Challenges, Proposes a Practical Universal Design ‘Elder City’

    Thai PBS Highlights Aging Society Challenges, Proposes a Practical Universal Design ‘Elder City’

    The Thai PBS Active Policy Forum invites Thai people to envision the future of ‘Elder City’ – a city where older adults and people with disabilities can access essential services within 15 minutes. Thailand entered an aging society in 2023, yet we still have fewer than 100 geriatric specialists nationwide, and up to 50% of older adults live alone (those aged 60+ now number 13.2 million). Universal Design + the 15-minute city isn’t just a concept – it’s a solution that benefits both older adults and people with disabilities. Walkable sidewalks, accessible transit, and public spaces everyone can share. Thanks…

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  • Thai Kindness Never Blocks Anyone, But New Light Poles Block the Sidewalk

    Thai Kindness Never Blocks Anyone, But New Light Poles Block the Sidewalk

    A motorcycle taxi rider spotted a foreign wheelchair user stuck on a sidewalk along Pattaya Klang Road. A brand-new LED light pole, planted right in the path, left no room for the wheelchair to pass. He didn’t hesitate. Parked his bike. Lifted the wheelchair over the obstacle on the spot. The clip went viral. People praised his kindness — but also raised questions. Pattaya installed over 4,000 new LED poles. Some ended up blocking sidewalks. City upgrades that create new barriers for people with disabilities. Thai people are always generous. But the hope is for sidewalks designed right from the…

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  • When Disney’s Magic Doesn’t Welcome Everyone with a Disability

    When Disney’s Magic Doesn’t Welcome Everyone with a Disability

    In May 2024, Disney restricted its Disability Access Service (DAS) to only people with developmental disabilities. Those living with MS, PTSD, kidney failure, or chronic pain were cut off entirely. On March 18, 2026, shareholders proposed an independent review of the DAS policy — but new CEO Josh D’Amaro, the same person who designed it, blocked the proposal. Noah, an 8-year-old boy with autism who is non-verbal, was denied DAS. His family had to leave the park within two hours. His mother said, “It was our worst day there.” A survey found that 85% of those affected have no plans…

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  • In a Crisis, Who Really Suffers?

    In a Crisis, Who Really Suffers?

    The war in the Middle East is affecting all of us. Fuel prices jumped 6 baht per liter — a 14-22% increase overnight. The Finance Minister warned this crisis could be more severe and longer-lasting than the Russia-Ukraine crisis. The minimum wage still sits at 337-400 baht per day — roughly 9,185 baht a month. Household debt is growing at its fastest pace in 5 years. – Working people can still get by. But think about those who don’t even have the chance to work. – 2.28 million people with disabilities in Thailand receive a living allowance of 800 baht…

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