Celebrating World Braille Day 2026

Image Description: A close-up shot of a person’s hand resting on a page of Braille, fingers touching the raised dots.

Each year on 4 January, World Braille Day celebrates the lasting impact of this remarkable writing system.

Last November, one of our board members, Martine Abel-Williamson, attended a landmark international event in Paris from 13 to 15 November 2025, marking the 200th anniversary of the invention of Braille. Experts, advocates, and people from around the world came together to reflect on how Braille has shaped the past — and how it continues to matter today.

During the three-day event, participants explored themes such as Braille in the digital age, global literacy initiatives, and ways to support independence and inclusion. Martine shared the work of the World Blind Union (WBU) and the International Council on Education of Persons with Visual Impairment (ICEVI), presenting on their newly launched Braille Literacy Campaign. She also visited Louis Braille’s tomb at the Panthéon in Paris. The tribute was put up in 1952, 100 years after he died, and reflected on the farreaching legacy of his work. 

The event was more than a celebration. It highlighted global efforts to make braille accessible everywhere. 

You can read more about Blind Low Vision NZ’s work with Braille, including resources and support service on our website and join us in celebrating World Braille Day!