Who We Are, Global Organization

Home About Who We Are

Founded in 1984, the World Blind Union (WBU) has been leading global advocacy for blind and partially sighted people for more than 40 years.

As an unparalleled global coalition of diverse voices, we advocate for the rights and inclusion of blind and partially sighted people everywhere.

The World Blind Union (WBU) is an internationally recognized organization, representing 338 million blind and partially sighted persons in 190 member countries. We are the voice of the blind, speaking to governments and international bodies on issues concerning blindness and low vision in cooperation with our members.

Globally, we are divided into six regions, with each region having its own president and volunteer executive team to assist the local members. A listing of our global members and regional offices can be accessed in the Members Section of this website.

If you are with an organization that serves people who are blind or partially sighted in your country and you wish to join the WBU, please review the membership information, criteria, and application process listed on this website.

Learn about our governance structure

Our Vision

We dream of a future where the children of today will one day say, “I’m blind; it’s no big deal”; a future where their lives are free of human-made barriers that prevent them from living with full participation, autonomy, and freedom. They will not have to fight for their rights because it is second nature for their needs to be factored into the built environment, and their voices will be integral to the work of institutions and systems that uphold and defend human rights. They will be able to achieve their full potential and pursue their dreams however they choose.

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). Visit Our History page to learn more about WBU’s evolution.

Members of the visually-impaired community, volunteers, local organizations and the Myanmar Red Cross Society participate in the 2017 White Cane Day walk in downtown Yangon.

Our People

At the World Blind Union, our dedicated team drives our mission to empower blind and partially sighted communities globally; visit Our People page to learn more about the exceptional individuals leading and supporting our efforts.

Group photo of 15 people standing side by side, on a stage

Our Committees

The World Blind Union’s specialized committees and working groups are dedicated to advancing our strategic goals and addressing key issues; visit Our Committees page to discover how these teams are driving impactful change.

CEO of WBU Marc Workman is speaking to audience.

Our Partners & Sponsors

The World Blind Union collaborates with over 500 organizations across 190 countries, uniting a global network of partners dedicated to advancing the rights and inclusion of blind and partially sighted individuals; explore Our Partners & Sponsors page to learn more about these vital alliances and how you can join our movement.