The European Parliament will host a Virtual Lunch Debate on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 12:30 to 14:30 CET, in recognition of World Hearing Day 2025. Under the theme “Changing Mindsets”, the event will focus on employment challenges and opportunities for individuals with hearing loss, as well as the crucial role of hearing health in the workforce.
Key Discussions
The event, hosted by MEP Zala Tomasic (Slovenia, EPP), will bring together experts and policymakers to explore solutions that enhance workplace inclusivity for individuals who are hard of hearing. The agenda includes:
- WHO World Hearing Day 2025 theme – Shelly Chadha (WHO)
- The EU Disability Employment Package – Monika Chaba (European Commission)
- Hard of Hearing people in employment – implementing inclusive approach – Lidia Best (EFHOH)
- Advocacy / multi-sectoral action for change – Ariane Laplante-Lévesque (WHO Europe)
- The consequences of hearing loss on employment – Mark Laureyns (AEA)
- The role of hearing health in employment and job retention – Stefan Zimmer (EHIMA)
- Panel Debate – All
Accessibility and Registration
To ensure broad participation, all presentations will be supported with Speech-to-Text translations in English, Dutch, French, German, Slovenian, and Spanish.
Join the conversation and be part of the change! Register here
