Thirteen Dutch zoos, along with the Dutch Zoo Association (NVD), the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, the Accessible Recreation Foundation (STR), and Joint Projects, are joining forces to create the Zoo Inclusion Pact. They aim to make a day at the zoo more accessible for people with disabilities.
The festive kick-off took place on October 14, 2025, at DierenPark Amersfoort and was opened by Astrid Wassenaar, interim chair of the NVD and animal director of DierenPark Amersfoort.
Traces of change
The afternoon's theme was "Traces": recognizing, following, earning, and leaving traces. Two experienced experts – rebels Gerja Bijker and Patricia Vianen – gave attendees a compelling insight into how accessibility makes the difference between being "there" and being "on the sidelines." After the successful pilot in Apenheul (hearing impairment) are beekse bergen and AquaZoo are now leaders with tangible results, such as the Changing Places toilet and the accessible tiger panel. Rebel Patricia, who is blind, said: "At the tiger enclosure in AquaZoo, I felt the tiger's relief and heard a story—that was a magical moment."
Together on the right track
Pien Harms, chair of the Accessible Recreation Foundation, emphasized in her speech that this project is more than a collaboration; it's a joint effort. Kai Vasmel of ARTIS, Head of Public Services, said: "What a positive atmosphere. We're delighted to be a part of it."
The Inclusion Pact is an initiative of Joint Projects and is being implemented in collaboration with the NVD (Dutch Zoo Service). In 2025 and 2026, the zoos will achieve improvements in accessibility, hospitality, and experience.
At the closing ceremony, each zoo left a paw print and signed it: a pledge to work together to build a future where everyone can enjoy a day at the zoo.
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