About Zero Project

The Zero Project, initiated by the Essl Foundation and organized in partnership with the World Future Council, advocates the rights of persons with disabilities internationally. Its mission is: working for a world with zero barriers.

The Zero Project is based on the “Essl Social Index Pilot Study” which was published in 2010. The results of, and the experiences gained developing, the pilot study have led to expansion into other fields. The Zero Project creates platforms for sharing and developing models that clearly improve the daily lives, and legal rights, of persons with disabilities.

Read our Mission Statement

1. Zero Project Report

The first Zero Project Report was published on the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, 3 December 2011. It is published annually and summarises all current results of the Zero Project. It is available in print and also for free download from the Zero Project Website:

Download Zero Project Report 2013

2. Zero Project Website

The Zero Project Website was officially launched on 23 January 2012. Its design is based on social media and it will act as an interactive platform for everyone who is interested in Social Indicators, Innovative Practice and Innovative Policy examples in the field of disability. Its overarching aim is to highlight the best solutions for creating change for the better.

Browse our Social Indicators, Innovative Practice and Innovative Policy

3. Zero Project Conference

Since 2012, the Essl Foundation and its partner World Future Council, supported by Bank Austria, convene international conferences in Vienna, Austria, which aim to raise awareness about innovative solutions from around the world that implement the rights of persons with disabilities. The conferences seek to strengthen the commitment of all stakeholders to promote, protect and advance the rights of persons with disabilities, and to improve their living conditions.