The third Global Disability Summit in Berlin brought together thousands of delegates to advance disability rights, resulting in the Amman-Berlin Resolution. Endorsed by over 80 countries, including Australia, the resolution sets a global target: by 2028, at least 15% of international development programs at the country level should be disability-focused — a recognition of the need for targeted action alongside general inclusion efforts.

Australia is already exceeding this target, but the resolution highlights that mainstreaming alone is not sufficient. People with disabilities face unique barriers requiring targeted, systemic solutions. The “Preconditions for Inclusion” framework — promoted by the Pacific Disability Forum and included in Australia’s recent disability strategy — identifies essential elements like accessibility, assistive technology, support services, and anti-discrimination policies that must be in place for true inclusion.

These preconditions address structural barriers that often limit access even when disability-inclusion practices are present in programs. The distinction is key: general disability-inclusion practices help individuals access specific programs, while precondition efforts aim for broad, systemic change. For real progress, the “15%” target must focus on precondition-driven initiatives, while all development programs should incorporate inclusive practices.