The Institute on Disability and Public Policy at American University is a multidisciplinary, cross-campus research center that creates and disseminates knowledge that enables all persons to participate effectively in local, national, and global governance through the use of accessible information and communication technologies. IDPP leads the AU 2030 Strategic Initiative on Global Disability and Development, and helps to facilitate collaborative research, teaching and outreach programs through its partnerships.

Since 2009, IDPP has been creating groundbreaking, innovative pathways to accessible learning. It built the world's first virtual graduate institute on disability and public policy through the vision and support of The Nippon Foundation.

Our Core Focus Areas:

  • Global, Regional and National Disability Policy

  • Inclusive Sustainable Development

  • Accessible Global Governance

  • Inclusive Cities and Urban Development

  • Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction

  • Information and Communication Technologies for Development

  • Accessible Robotics

  • Accessible Cyberlearning

  • Accessibility, Assistive Technologies and Universal Design

Featured
IDPP and Special Olympics D.C. Launch Chapter at American University
IDPP and Special Olympics D.C. Launch Chapter at American University

The Institute on Disability and Public Policy (IDPP) and the Special Olympics of D.C. are pleased to announce the launch of a collegiate chapter at American University. The chapter – AU Special Olympics (AUSO) – was officially recognized in early December 2018.

IDPP Student Spotlight: Kathryn Scavuzzo
IDPP Student Spotlight: Kathryn Scavuzzo

“The most rewarding part of my work is that I am contributing to supporting the disability community. As someone with a learning disability, I understand first-hand the struggles it takes to making sure you have the accommodations and accessibility you need.”
IDPP Supports Launch of New Pan American Health Organization Initiative

The Institute on Disability and Public Policy (IDPP) collaborated with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) at their INGRID-H launch event on Tuesday, December 11, 2018 at the PAHO headquarters in Washington, D.C.  

IDPP Contributes to International Day of Persons with Disabilities
IDPP Contributes to International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Since 1992, the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3 has been annually observed around the world. IDPD 2018 focused on empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality. The Institute on Disability and Public Policy (IDPP) has made a variety of major contributions that were launch or announced during this year’s celebration.

Inclusive Sustainable Development Capstone Seminar
Inclusive Sustainable Development Capstone Seminar

Please join IDPP on December 5 for a capstone seminar which will explore the background, strategies and mechanisms for achieving and evaluating the ambitious 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

IDPP Publishes Study on Accessibility Barriers at United Nations and Other Global Decision-Making Forums

A study by American University’s Institute on Disability and Public Policy (IDPP), with support from The Nippon Foundation, is the first systematic attempt to examine accessibility barriers in global governance.

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