Representation at the EUD General Assembly

May 17, 2026 | Building Capacity across the Globe, Events

A group of people seated at tables in a conference room listens to a presenter speaking at the front with a projected screen behind them.

Mr. Juan A. de Gouveia Fernandez, WFD Board member, attended the General Assembly of the European Union of the Deaf in Cyprus. As the Regional Co-operating Member of the WFD in Europe, the EUD plays a key role in promoting and protecting the rights of deaf people across the region.

A man in a suit and striped tie is using sign language in front of a blue and yellow banner and a projector screen.

A man in a suit speaks at a conference in a room with seated attendees, presentation slides, and flags visible on tables.

During the Assembly, Mr. de Gouveia Fernandez delivered a speech highlighting the essential role of national associations of the deaf people in advancing the rights, inclusion, and full participation of deaf people in society. He emphasised the importance of strong collaboration between organisations at national, European, and international levels to continue promoting accessibility and sign language rights.

He also followed the exchanges and strategic discussions held throughout the event, as well as the election of the new EUD Board for the 2026–2030 term.

Seven people stand side by side in formal attire in front of a blue European Union of the Deaf backdrop.

Congratulations to the newly elected Board, and best wishes for a successful mandate in strengthening the rights and representation of Deaf people across Europe.