2 Inclusive and accessible content

Accessible publishing is more than simply preparing files that can be read using screen readers and other assistive technologies. Accessibility starts at the content creation stage and involves the use of inclusive language and visuals. There are a few simple rules that can improve the inclusivity of language and visuals, as outlined by the UN’s Disability-Inclusive Communications Guidelines (UN, 2022).

2.1 Include persons with disabilities in your research, narratives and visuals

If you are doing research, ensure that persons with disabilities are represented in your research sample, if applicable.

If you are creating a story about people with disabilities, consult and include them, and ensure that the story is written from their perspective. Portray them in active roles. Visuals should show persons with disabilities in various situations, integrated into daily activities and leading productive lives, instead of separating them and focusing on the disability only.

2.2 Use person-first language

Human-centred language places the person above the disability. This means saying, for example, “persons with disabilities” rather than “disabled persons”. This may seem like a small difference, but person-first language acknowledges the person as a whole instead of defining the person by the disability, thereby helping shape the way society thinks about persons with disabilities. More details on writing about persons with disabilities are available in 3.3.5 Disability of “FAOSTYLE”.

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