Inclusivity as a norm: why is it a necessity today, not an option?

Today, inclusivity goes far beyond formal standards. It has become a clear indicator of social maturity and responsible business practice. This is especially true in today’s Ukrainian context, where the number of people living with disabilities is growing and the need for accessible environments is no longer optional, but urgent.

What inclusivity really means

Inclusivity is not about creating “special conditions” for selected groups. It is about universal design and solutions that work for everyone: people with disabilities, parents with strollers, senior guests, those with temporary injuries, and veterans during rehabilitation.

“Inclusivity is not about a ramp installed for compliance. It is about whether a person can independently reach where they want to go – without assistance and without discomfort”, explains Mykhailo, Bukovel’s inclusivity specialist.

Since 2022, Ukrainian society has undergone profound change. The number of people requiring barrier-free access, temporarily or permanently, has increased. At the same time, public awareness has grown – inclusivity is no longer a niche topic, but a shared responsibility.

Inclusivity at Bukovel: a systemic approach, not one-off solutions

Bukovel approaches inclusivity comprehensively rather than selectively. This means ongoing analysis of infrastructure, routes, and services – from pathway gradients and passage widths to navigation logic and the accessibility of service zones.

Mykhailo is involved in this work not as a consultant on paper, but as a hands-on practitioner.

“I test routes the way guests actually use them. I assess slopes, surfaces, turning comfort, and access to locations. What may seem like a minor detail can, in reality, be decisive”, he notes.

This approach allows the resort to be seen through the eyes of different users and helps implement solutions that truly work in everyday conditions.

Inclusivity is about experience, not limitation

It is essential to understand that inclusive spaces do not reduce emotions or experiences. On the contrary – they expand them.

“When the environment is thoughtfully designed, people stop thinking about barriers. They focus on rest, emotions, and the moment itself. That is the ultimate goal”, says Mykhailo.

At Bukovel, inclusivity is fully integrated into the resort’s overall concept – a space offering dozens of scenarios, accessible to everyone.