Barrier-free structures in the built environment enable people with disabilities to participate in mainstream society. These guidelines contain recommendations on planning and building design, public awareness initiatives, access policy provisions and legislation to promote barrier-free environments. The guidelines are intended to serve as a reference for decision-makers and programme personnel working on human settlement issues, especially those in architecture, research and training, urban planning and management, and the elimination of physical barriers to disabled persons' freedom of movement
This publication gives an overview of accessibility legislation in the Asia and Pacific region including case studies. It also addresses the valuable role of education systems, associations of professionals, and non-government organisations in improving accessibility for disabled and older persons