Wikimedia CEE Meeting 2026/Submissions/Introducing Wikimedia environment to new users with visual and hearing impairments: challenges and possibilities

This presentation explores practical experiences and lessons learned from introducing Wikimedia projects to new users with visual and hearing impairments. It discusses accessibility barriers that newcomers may encounter when editing, navigating, and participating in Wikimedia communities, as well as tools, adaptations, and good practices that can facilitate their engagement. Particular attention will be paid to screen-reader compatibility, accessible training methods, communication strategies for deaf and hard-of-hearing participants, and the role of community support. The session aims to identify both existing challenges and opportunities for creating a more inclusive Wikimedia environment across the Central and Eastern European region.

The session will be particularly relevant to Wikimedia communities across Central and Eastern Europe that seek to broaden participation among underrepresented groups. It will provide practical recommendations for making outreach, training, and community activities more accessible to people with visual and hearing impairments. Special attention will be given to Turkic-language Wikimedia communities, where the participation of visually impaired contributors often remains limited due to the underdevelopment of language-specific accessibility tools, including screen-reader support, text-to-speech solutions, and accessible digital resources. By sharing experiences, challenges, and successful practices, the session aims to encourage collaboration across the CEE region and support the creation of more inclusive Wikimedia communities.