On 1 October 2026, disabled people, Independent Living activists, allies and supporters from across Europe will take to the streets of Brussels for the Freedom Drive 2026 Protest.
The Freedom Drive is one of ENIL’s biggest campaigns and has brought disabled people together since 2003 to demand our rights directly from European decision-makers. This year’s message is simple: NO MORE EXCUSES – OUR TIME IS NOW!
We will gather at 09:30 at Parc du Cinquantenaire, at the entrance by Avenue de la Joyeuse Entrée 25. After speeches from activists and allies, the march will start at 10:00 and make its way through Brussels towards the European Parliament. Along the route, we will stop near the European Commission and the Hungarian Permanent Representation to the EU. The protest will finish at the European Parliament at approximately 12:00, where ENIL plans to hand over the Freedom Drive demands to Members of the European Parliament.
Why are we marching? Because disabled people across Europe are still being denied the right to live independently and be included in the community. The Freedom Drive is our chance to make these barriers visible, bring our demands directly to EU institutions and remind decision-makers that disability rights cannot keep being postponed.
Bring your banners, megaphones, whistles, drums , and whatever else can make some noise. Stewards in high-visibility jackets will be present throughout the march, together with a police escort.
Event details
- 📅 1 October 2026
- 🕤 09:30–12:00 CEST
- 📍 Parc du Cinquantenaire, Avenue de la Joyeuse Entrée 25, Brussels
- 🏁 Finish: European Parliament
- 📢 NO MORE EXCUSES – OUR TIME IS NOW!
Come and be loud, proud and visible with us.