A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of strategic importance and strong social impact was signed on Saturday, September 6, 2025, in the context of the 89th Thessaloniki International Fair (TIF), by the Minister of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence, Mr. Dimitris Papastergiou, and Prof. Vassilis Charmandaris, President of the Foundation for Research and Technology – Hellas (FORTH).

The MoU aims to strengthen universal accessibility to digital public services and to advance digital inclusion, with a particular focus on Persons with Disabilities (PwD), ensuring equal participation for all citizens in the digital era.

A Vision for an Inclusive Digital State

The Ministry of Digital Governance and Artificial Intelligence is committed to shaping a modern, efficient, and inclusive state, free from digital barriers. Today, 27% of adults in Europe—approximately 101 million people, including 11 million children—live with some form of disability. Alarmingly, 40.5% of young people with severe disabilities face poverty and social exclusion.

Addressing these challenges is a strategic priority for the Ministry, which aims to harness information and communication technologies to build an inclusive digital state, with particular emphasis on the active participation of Persons with Disabilities (PwD). To this end, the Ministry works in close collaboration with the academic and research community, leveraging cutting-edge knowledge and innovation to design digital services that respond effectively to the needs of all users.

FORTH’s Role and Expertise

FORTH is one of Greece’s leading research organizations, with internationally recognized expertise in scientific research, technological development, and innovation. It has developed pioneering know-how in digital accessibility and support for Persons with Disabilities, becoming a key partner in this national effort.

Within the framework of the MoU, FORTH’s Institute of Computer Science will serve as technical advisor for the design, evaluation, and continuous enhancement of accessibility on the national digital portal gov.gr. This includes defining specifications and best practices in line with internationally recognized accessibility standards.

In addition, FORTH will contribute to the training and capacity building of public sector executives, promoting the principles of universal design and the effective use of digital accessibility tools. Through these actions, public bodies will be better equipped to develop and deliver digital services that are accessible to all citizens, without exceptions.