Premiere in Leipzig: specialist conference You can!” for inclusion in the workplace

Premiere in Leipzig: specialist conference You can!” for inclusion in the workplace

At a time when inclusion and participation in society are becoming increasingly important, an important event is being announced for 2026: the specialist congress “You can!” will take place from March 11th to 13th, 2026 at the Congress Center Leipzig. This congress is aimed at specialists and managers, employees of workshops for disabled people as well as representatives from politics, business and science. Here everyone has the opportunity to exchange ideas and find out about developments in inclusion. Like the Leipzig Trade Fair reported, this congress will be a place for interdisciplinary dialogue to actively promote the participation of people with disabilities.

"You can!" is organized under the leadership of the Federal Association of Workshops for Disabled People (BAG WfbM), which employs over 310,000 adults with disabilities in its member workshops alone. This means that the event is not only a platform for professional exchange, but also a step towards strengthening the professional prospects of people with disabilities. Christiane Eck-Meißner, deputy chairwoman of the BAG WfbM, emphasizes that inclusion represents a common development process that is supported by this congress.

One step further in inclusion

The topics that will be discussed at the congress could not be more diverse. From inclusive personnel recruitment to digitalization and assistive technologies to educational and qualification offers - the congress addresses all areas that are important for the participation of people with disabilities in working life. Whether people with disabilities in the world of work, political leaders or company representatives – everyone is invited to contribute their ideas. The submission deadline for speakers ends on August 3, 2025, and proposals can be easily submitted via an online form on the BAG WfbM website, such as DVFR holds on.

The need for such events is also reflected in the challenges that people with disabilities face in the labor market. Despite rising labor force participation, which rose from 41.6% in 2005 to 49% in 2017, access to employment often remains difficult. There are numerous reasons for this, from psychological stress to stigmatization to mobility-related restrictions. The BPB emphasizes that these issues must be addressed in order to improve the participation of people with disabilities in working life across the board.

A look into the future

The “You can!” congress pursues the ambitious goal of making inclusion not just a wish, but a realizable vision of the future. The event will not only shed light on the current situation, but also discuss opportunities and challenges in the wake of digitalization and demographic changes. The congress is scheduled to take place in spring every year and will therefore find a permanent place in the calendar of local actors in the field of inclusion.

How important access to work and education is for people with disabilities can be seen not only in the numbers, but also in the personal stories of those affected. With “You can!” Another chapter in the history of inclusion opens - a chapter that is characterized by exchange, development and, above all, the opportunity to actively participate in social life. Further information can be found on the website You can include.