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World Blind Union

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Home About Our History

The World Blind Union (WBU) was established in 1984, merging two important global organizations: the International Federation of the Blind (IFB) and the World Council for the Welfare of the Blind (WCWB).

The inaugural General Assembly that founded the WBU was held on October 26, 1984, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Since then, WBU has convened nine more General Assemblies every four years, with locations spanning across the globe:

  • Madrid 1988
  • Cairo 1992
  • Toronto 1996
  • Melbourne 2000
  • Cape Town 2004
  • Geneva 2008
  • Bangkok 2012
  • Orlando 2016
  • Spain 2021 (Virtual)
  • São Paulo 2025
WBU member speaking at conference

The most recent General Assembly is took place in São Paulo, Brazil in 2025

The WBU is organized into six regional divisions: Africa, Asia, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America and the Caribbean. This structure has facilitated an engaging and responsive platform for dialogue and action, reflecting the diverse needs and experiences of WBU members.

Starting with 60 countries, WBU’s membership has expanded to approximately 190 countries over four decades. The adoption of English, French, and Spanish as WBU’s official languages has enhanced communication and ensured inclusivity among members worldwide.

Under its influential leadership and constitution, WBU has not only advocated for the rights of blind and partially sighted individuals but has also provided them with a platform to represent themselves. This self-representation is crucial in combating prejudices and promoting the capabilities of people who are blind or partially sighted. Through its persistent efforts, WBU has sought to secure full participation and equality in society for all its members, focusing on eliminating discrimination and fostering a belief in the potential and abilities of all those who WBU represents.