Romania, located in southeastern Europe, has made progress in improving the lives of people with disabilities over the years. However, there are still challenges that people with disabilities face, including discrimination and limited access to public services.
Attitudes Towards Disability in Romania
Attitudes towards people with disabilities in Romania are mixed. On the one hand, there is a growing recognition of the rights of people with disabilities and the need for greater inclusion. On the other hand, negative stereotypes and discrimination still exist. People with disabilities may face social exclusion and difficulties in finding employment.
Discrimination and legislation issues
Discrimination against people with disabilities is illegal in Romania, and the country has several laws and policies in place to protect their rights. These include the National Strategy for the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Law on the Prevention and Elimination of Discrimination, and the Law on Social Assistance.
Despite these legal protections, discrimination against people with disabilities still occurs. For example, people with disabilities may face barriers in accessing education, employment, and public services. Additionally, there are still concerns about the implementation and enforcement of disability-related laws and policies.
Public transport and building access
Public transport and building access for people with disabilities in Romania are limited. While some buses and trams have been retrofitted to be more accessible, many still lack proper accommodations such as ramps and low floors. Train stations and subway systems are also not fully accessible, with limited or no elevators or ramps available.
Building access for people with disabilities is also a concern, particularly in older buildings that were constructed before accessibility laws were put in place. While newer buildings are required to be accessible, there is still a significant amount of work to be done to ensure that all buildings are fully accessible.
Lobbying/advocacy groups
There are several organizations in Romania that work to promote the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. These include:
- National Council of People with Disabilities in Romania (CNPDR) is an independent body that advises the government on disability-related issues and advocates for the rights of people with disabilities.
- Motivation Romania a non-profit organization that works to empower people with disabilities and promote their inclusion in society.
- Light into Europe is an organization that focuses on providing education, training, and support for people with visual impairments.
While progress has been made in improving the lives of people with disabilities in Romania, there is still a long way to go. Discrimination and limited access to public services are still major issues, and there is a need for greater advocacy and support for the disability community. By working together with advocacy groups and government officials, we can strive towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all.