The Congress was the forum for new initiatives aimed at changing perceptions of disability, tackling social exclusion and supporting millions of disadvantaged people.

RI Global is the world's leading network for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. This network includes people with disabilities, service providers, government agencies, academics, researchers and advocates. Comprising an assembly of 100+ member organisations, it uses advocacy, habilitation and rehabilitation to achieve an inclusive world where all people can enjoy active participation and full human rights.

Founded in 1922, RI grew from its small town roots in the American Midwest, to become an internationally prominent organisation in just a few years. Unlike most international organisations with a large core staff at the headquarters level, the RI Secretariat in New York has never been large. Instead, the majority of work has been carried out by RI's member organisations.

RI World Congress attracts delegates from disability related disciplines including:

• Researchers
• Policy makers
• Employers
• Businesses
• Advocates
• Practitioners
• People with disabilities
• Government officials
• RI members

The 23rd RI World Congress enjoys the patronage of a wide range of leading figures known for their commitment to promoting inclusion. These include:

Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal - Royal Patron
Baroness Valerie Amos
Hans-Horst Konkolewsky
Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC
Lord Holmes of Richmond
Baroness Masham of Ilton
Terry Riley OBE
Sir Philip Craven
Dame Anne Begg
Lord Filkin CBE
Lord Low of Dalston
Baroness Thomas of Winchester
Lord Leitch
Baroness Greengross
Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson
Maryanne Diamond
Pamela Relph
Aaron Phipps
Colin Allen
The Rt Hon Tom Clarke CBE, JP, KSG
Chris McCoy MBE