Odesa Took Barrier-Free Week to a New Level
«Our goal is to create a space where everyone can realize their potential without limitations», said Odessa Mayor Gennadiy Trukhanov.
Barrier-free week, declared at the national level in Ukraine, concluded in Odessa with the vibrant event «Sports Without Barriers». Throughout the day, residents were invited to engage in interactive sports activities available to all, regardless of physical abilities.
«We aim to build a society where everyone can live, work, and grow without barriers. This initiative was set forth by our President and the First Lady of Ukraine. We are continually working to eliminate barriers in all aspects of life. We pay special attention to our veterans, as for them, sports are a key element for integration into society», emphasized Trukhanov.
According to Oleksiy Morozov, the city mayor's adviser on barrier-free space, the week was highly productive and began with the construction of the pedestrian section of the inclusive route «North – South» — the largest pedestrian area of its kind in Ukraine as part of the National Project «Movement Without Barriers».
Additionally, experts inspected key locations along the inclusive route, including recreational facilities along the coast. Currently, an updated inclusive beach at the 11th station of the Great Fountain is being prepared for opening, as well as a sports ground where people with disabilities can train. Plans are underway for a large inclusive pool, as sea waves can pose significant challenges for many.
«We can confidently say that barrier-free access is a strategy for the city's development, implemented through specific actions and thoughtful space organization. The Barrier-Free Council, which includes veterans and people with disabilities, determines our work priorities», added Morozov.
It is also noteworthy that Odessa has achieved significant success in adaptive sports. Recently, the Odessa veterans rowing team returned from Greece, where they completed a long route across the Aegean Sea. They also participated in a friendly swim event called «Regatta of Heroes - 2025» in Dnipro, organized for the Day of Heroes of Ukraine. Furthermore, adaptive sports such as billiards, Thai boxing, golf, and others are actively developing.
«Everything we do now considers the needs of people with disabilities and veterans. From infrastructure and recreational areas to cultural and sports development, our aim is to create a barrier-free city where everyone feels dignified and comfortable», emphasized Gennadiy Trukhanov.
