Supporting the blind community in Denmark.
Text: Anna Pawlowicz Pics: IBOS FB Page
The 4th of January 2025 is World Braille Day, an occasion celebrated by the blind community and a reminder of the importance of Braille as a communication tool for people who are blind or on the blindness spectrum.
In this issue, we’re featuring the work of the National Institute for Visual Impairment (IBOS) and the Danish Braille Board. In a conversation with Marie Fasmer, Head of IBOS, and Tina Thøgersen, Study Advisor at IBOS, a member of the Danish Braille Board, and part of the user group herself as she is blind, we explore the support available for the blind community in Denmark and the ongoing relevance of Braille in an increasingly digital world.
A legacy of inclusion
With approximately 15,000 people across Denmark living with some form of visual impairment, IBOS plays a crucial role in supporting blind individuals. From skills development to community integration, their mission is clear: to ensure that blind and visually impaired individuals have the tools to live independent, fulfilling lives.
According to Marie Fasmer, IBOS has a history of over 165 years and is one of Denmark's key specialised institutions dedicated to supporting the blind community. Today, IBOS works as a bridge between that community and the wider public, helping individuals integrate into Danish society while also serving as a resource hub for professionals in the field.
In Marie’s words, “Our work at IBOS covers a variety of needs. We assist people who have recently lost their sight to develop everyday skills. We also support lifelong blind individuals, as well as those with residual vision, to succeed academically and professionally.”
While the blind community in Denmark may be small, its diversity is significant. As Tina Thøgersen explains, “We’re all different. Whether you have a visual impairment or complete blindness, the support you receive must reflect your needs and the wishes you have for your life.”
Marie Fasmer adds that different life stages require a specific approach to assistance. Studying, starting a family, or adjusting to a new workplace all present particular challenges, which IBOS recognises and embraces for the community it serves.
A commitment to education and professional training
A unique feature of IBOS, and one that Marie is especially proud of, is its role in training professionals who work with blind individuals across Denmark. The institute has developed a specialised educational program to train teachers, therapists, and other professionals in this field. This ensures nationwide access to well-trained specialists who understand the unique needs that come with blindness.
"We’re all different. Whether you have a visual impairment or complete blindness, the support you receive must reflect your needs and the wishes you have for your life."
Accessible voting
Another area both Marie and Tina highlighted with pride was the strides made in ensuring equal participation in voting. A recent success story is the development of accessible voting ballots for referendums requiring a "yes" or "no" response. Tailored templates with Braille printed on them allow blind voters to cast their ballots independently – an experience which Tina describes as empowering: “Developing Braille ballot overlays was a big achievement. It gave a sense of dignity for many members of our community.” While more work is needed to make all types of elections fully accessible, this milestone represents significant progress in inclusion.
The relevance of braille
Given the availability of audiobooks, screen readers, and voice recognition, our conversation with Marie and Tina was also an opportunity to discuss the role of Braille in today’s high-tech world.
With confidence in her voice, Tina shared with us that Braille is irreplaceable. “It is not just a method of reading—it is essential for literacy. Braille teaches about the structure of language, spelling, and ways to formulate your thoughts. It equips you with skills that ensure your independence, and it plays a unique role that other assistive technology tools cannot fulfil.”
Looking ahead: A community that thrives together
As Denmark continues its efforts to create a more inclusive society, the work of IBOS and the Danish Braille Board reminds us of the importance of supporting the blind community and changing attitudes toward blindness and disability.
Tina hopes that, with time, members of the blind community, individuals with other disabilities, and non-disabled members of our society will be able to meet on equal terms. In her words, “When we all meet halfway, we realise that our perception of being different isn’t exactly right. We all face different challenges, and we all need different resources to thrive.”
To create opportunities for meeting on equal terms, IBOS is hosting a permanent assistive technology exhibition, which all of us can visit to learn more about using Braille and other tools for studies, work or leisure. For details, visit IBOS’ website.