2024 in review: The year we *really* changed Romania

As 2024 draws to a close, and 35 years after the Revolution, Romania stands on the cusp of another life-changing movement – one in diversity and inclusion. While these values have long been aspirational in our national discourse, 2024 marked a significant pivot – one where ideals began to transform into concrete action.

At the heart of this transformation was the inaugural AccessABILITY Expo, the first event in Romania to unite businesses, policymakers, advocates, and individuals with disabilities under one roof. For a country still grappling with systemic barriers to accessibility, this event was not just a milestone, it was a paradigm shift.

The event showcased more than technology or best practices – it showed the power of inclusion as a driver of innovation. It brought visibility to the untapped potential of people with disabilities – and decision-makers listened. Companies have started to and are continuing to reimagine accessibility not as an afterthought, but as a core value. And those with lived experiences of disability are finally seeing their voices amplified in ways that will ripple across industries and institutions.

Romania has long lagged behind in creating accessible public spaces, inclusive workplaces, and equitable opportunities for marginalised groups. But the AccessABILITY Expo demonstrated what is possible when we address these gaps now. Today. Tomorrow. Accessibility is not merely a moral imperative, but an economic and social one. It’s about building a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can contribute their talents fully and freely.

This, however, was not an isolated event. It was emblematic of a broader interest in Romania’s corporate and civic sectors. Over the past year, we have seen businesses adopt diversity programs, government leaders engage with underrepresented communities, and a growing recognition that inclusion is not just an ethical responsibility but a competitive advantage in a increasingly competitive and globalised world.

The Romanian Diversity Chamber of Commerce has been at the forefront of these efforts. This year, we expanded our training programs, helping organisations move beyond performative gestures toward substantive change. We deepened partnerships with international stakeholders, ensuring that Romania remains aligned with global best practices. And we championed policies that push for equity across sectors – from the workplace to education to public infrastructure.

But let’s be clear: 2024 was not just a year of achievements. It was a year of commitments – a signal that Romania is ready to challenge long-held biases and dismantle structural inequalities.

The journey ahead will be neither easy nor linear. Entrenched systems resist change. Prejudices linger. But the momentum we have built this year gives me hope. It shows that progress is not only possible but inevitable when people bring the best in themselves out for the greater good.

The AccessABILITY Expo was a catalyst, a reminder that when diverse voices are heard, extraordinary things happen. It’s time for Romania to double down on this progress and lead by example in Eastern Europe. The world is watching, but more importantly, so are our people – regardless of their abilities – and they deserve nothing less than a society that works for *everyone*.

As we step into 2025, as always, I am launching an invitation for you and your company to join us in making Romania what it was meant to, and deserves to be for its people. This is our moment. Let’s seize it.