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Home About Governance

At the World Blind Union (WBU), we champion governance by and for people with disabilities.

As an organization, we are committed to the principle that individuals who are blind or partially sighted should have the authority to speak on their own behalf and guide the direction of the WBU. This philosophy ensures that our members’ voices are not only heard but are also central in shaping the policies and actions of the Union. It’s about empowering blind and partially sighted people to represent themselves and actively participate in leadership.

The WBU General Assembly, held every four years, is the supreme decision-making body within our organization. It is the world’s largest global gathering of blind and partially sighted individuals, drawing delegates from dozens of countries around the world. These assemblies not only set the strategic direction of the WBU but also produce resolutions that guide our actions and policies until the next assembly. The resolutions from these assemblies reflect the collective voice and priorities of our global membership.

Learn about the upcoming General Assembly

Transparency and accountability are cornerstones of our operations at WBU. We regularly publish our strategic plans, which outline our objectives and strategies for the coming years. Our commitment to accountability is further demonstrated through the publication of annual reports, quadrennial reviews, and audited financial statements, all of which are available to our members and the public. These documents provide insights into our achievements and financial health, ensuring our members can track our progress and efficacy.

Explore our strategic plans Explore our quadrennial reports Explore our audited financial statements

Our Constitution is the foundational document that outlines the principles and procedures that govern our operations. Alongside the Constitution, we regularly issue position statements on various topics that concern the blind and partially sighted community. These statements articulate the official stance of the WBU, guiding our advocacy and informing our stakeholders on critical issues.

Read the latest Constitution Read our positioning statements

The WBU operates under a series of policies and procedures designed to ensure effective and ethical management. These guidelines help maintain the integrity of our operations and ensure we function in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals involved in the operation of our organization.