Yesterday marked the end of the Paralympics, a universal symbol of determination, talent and equal opportunities, but also an opportunity to draw attention to the commitment required to remove the barriers that limit people’s full participation in social and professional life.

It is within this framework of institutional responsibility that the Italian Medicines Agency is taking a concrete step to enhance accessibility within its own organisation, launching a dedicated service for staff aimed at ensuring full communication accessibility for employees with hearing impairments, in accordance with the principles of equity and the promotion of diversity.

 “We are proud to introduce this video interpreting system, which not only significantly improves the daily lives of our deaf employees, making them more independent and peaceful, but also strengthens our Agency’s capacity for inclusion. Our thanks go to all those who have made this innovation a reality and who, with sensitivity and expertise, have guided every stage of a project that will change the daily lives of our colleagues,” said President Robert Nisticò.

The service enables real-time professional support for communication in Italian Sign Language (LIS). Each deaf employee is provided with a personal account that allows them to access a LIS video interpreting service from any computer, smartphone or tablet during working hours, facilitating participation in meetings, training sessions, institutional gatherings and coordination activities, as well as daily communication with colleagues and external contacts.

By using the app, in just a few moments, with a simple click and without the need for a booking, an interpreter can be requested, thereby removing communication barriers, promoting equal opportunities and improving the quality of working life for deaf employees. This is not just about technology, but a deep commitment to making every employee feel valued and part of a large family.

 “It is a concrete step towards universal accessibility and workplace inclusion, in line with the principles enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the effective promotion of the right to work on the basis of full equality with others,” added Administrative Director Giovanni Pavesi.

The initiative aims to make communication accessibility a structural part of all the Agency's activities, continuously ensuring full participation and equal opportunities for all staff.