The Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs hosted the European Conference on the Integration of Persons with Disabilities which was attended by renowned international experts. The conference was held under the motto "Education, employment, accessibility - empowering persons with disabilities". More than 300 representatives from the world of politics, administration and science as well as the social partners and civil society took part. The main discussion points at the Conference were the opportunities, challenges and prospects in relation to enhancing the integration of persons with disabilities and enhancing measures to remove barriers for them. The different ways of integration in the member states were highlighted and workshops were offered as well.

Many participants however criticised the partial view on the integration of persons with disabilities in ordinary employment. Thus a higher rate of employees with disabilities in the European Union is required a broader view on different participation ways should be on the agenda. Germany with its 671 workshops and more than a quarter of a million disabled workers could be a best practise example for other member states.