REHACARE as a platform: How institutions are driving inclusion forward

As the leading international trade fair for rehabilitation and participation, REHACARE sees itself not only as a showcase for assistive technology, but also as a place for exchange. Wolfram N. Diener, CEO of Messe Düsseldorf, emphasizes that inclusion is no longer just a goal, but the basis of our coexistence. Accordingly, the trade fair is actively committed to breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities for all – in all areas of life.

REHACARE Director Hannes Niemann also emphasizes the special role of the trade fair: it not only provides information, but above all opportunities for encounters that can trigger new ideas and contribute to change.

Strong structures are also needed in working life. For Dr. Stefan Hussy, CEO of the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV), a formative experience in the steel industry was decisive for his commitment. At that time, he witnessed how a colleague returned to working life after a serious accident at work thanks to training and support from the employers' liability insurance association.

Today, the DGUV's task is to use all means possible to reintegrate people into life, learning, and work after an accident. At REHACARE 2025, the association will show how prevention and rehabilitation are implemented in practice (Hall 6, Booth E23).

Inclusion is also a question of young people's perspective. The German UNESCO Commission (Hall 6, Booth E04) aims to break down barriers with its kulturweit volunteer service. Hannah Tümpel explains that young people – regardless of their needs – should be given access to volunteer service abroad.

Christiane Hennemann, managing director of the rehaKIND association, also emphasizes that children and young people with disabilities are often neglected in health policy strategies. For 25 years, she has been campaigning for better provision of aids and for greater visibility for this target group. For her, it is clear that without promoting the resources and abilities of children and young people, society loses valuable potential.

Another perspective comes from civil society. After his own accident, entrepreneur Joachim Schoss founded the EnableMe Foundation. For 20 years, it has been offering support to people with disabilities and developing services for people with invisible disabilities. His conclusion: Successful inclusion benefits not only the person concerned, but also employers and society as a whole.

This shows that inclusion does not only depend on state structures or institutions, but also on private initiatives that create new services and focus on issues such as invisible disabilities.

Whether it's a trade fair, social security, an international organization, or a civil society initiative – each voice represents a different approach. Together, they paint a picture: framework conditions, networks, and commitment are crucial for making participation a reality in all areas of life. At REHACARE 2025, these perspectives come together and are showcased at the exhibition stands, in presentations, and in encounters.

published on: August 28, 2025