World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)

The World Federation of the Deaf is one of the oldest international organisations of persons with disabilities in the world. Recognising that deaf people throughout the globe face barriers to full accessibility, equal human rights, and participation in policymaking decisions that affect them, the WFD was established in Rome, Italy on 23 September 1951.

At the first World Congress, there were only delegates from 25 national associations of the deaf in attendance. Today, our Ordinary Members represent 125 countries across five continents. The WFD has collaborated with the United Nations and its agencies since the late 1950’s. Most recently, the WFD was critical in advocating for and developing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2006 and came into force in 2008. The WFD remains actively involved in the CRPD implementation, monitoring, and promoting its ratification by Member States.

WFD is a full member of the International Disability Alliance (IDA).