More information
Description
The ADVOCACY ACADEMY project aims to train young people with and without disabilities as “advocates” and “self advocates” in the area of human rights for people with disabilities. The project seeks to raise awareness among young people and, through their influence, their families and the contexts in which they live regarding the inclusion and human rights of people with disabilities (with a special focus on autism), thus contributing to building more inclusive, equitable and democratic societies that are open to human diversity. The project will include training sessions, an e-book defining all the methodologies followed and their results, and awareness and information seminars and webinars.
Summary of project results
People with disabilities are one of the most excluded social groups, facing significant barriers in enjoying fundamental human and citizenship rights, such as self-determination, self-representation, participation, and inclusion. The project sought to address this by training young people, both with and without disabilities, to become "advocates" and "self-advocates" in the realm of disability rights. Ultimately, the project aimed to foster groups of young activists dedicated to promoting these rights.
The first phase of the project consisted of a Pilot Course for Young People. This phase was essential for identifying areas needing improvement to design the extended national version of the course. The group of young participants was very heterogeneous, necessitating content adaptation to reach everyone. Although young people were the main target group, the project also included NGO professionals. In the second phase, the course was extended nationwide for young people and included a course for NGO technicians and other interested parties. The courses were successful, with two editions launched due to high participation. Approximately a hundred young people and professionals were trained. Both groups gained a greater understanding of disability and the importance of guaranteeing rights. The young participants developed a more human rights-aligned attitude towards differences and became more attentive and concerned about the challenges faced by people with disabilities. The project culminated in a policy paper recommending improvements in disability rights and inclusion.
Summing up:
- Pilot course: identified areas for improvement to design the national version.
- Content adaptation: adjusted materials to cater to a diverse group of young participants.
- Inclusion of ngo professionals: expanded the target group beyond young people.
- Nationwide expansion: launched two editions of the course due to high demand.
- Training impact: trained around 100 young people and professionals.
- Enhanced understanding: increased awareness of disability rights and challenges.
- Attitudinal shift: young participants developed a more human rights-aligned perspective and greater empathy towards people with disabilities.
- Advocacy and legal input: developed a policy paper outlining recommendations for improving disability rights and inclusion.
In quantitative terms, the following was achieved:
- 97 professional staff trained;
- 103 youths mobilised by NGOs to engage in human rights work;
- 7 awareness raising campaigns carried out;
- 96% share of target group showing concern for human rights;
- 1 national policy and law influenced.
In terms of capacity building, the promoter carried out a needs assessment and prepared an action plan. 10 professionals received training in accounting, project management and impact evaluation. All proposed targets were met and exceeded.
Summary of bilateral results
The project benefited from the partnership, which exchanged synergies and best practices between the promoter (focusing on disability rights) and the Icelandic Center for Human Rights (ICEHR), which focuses on human rights and public policy. This collaboration enriched the project''s courses for youth and professionals. The partnership will be strengthened through a joint application for bilateral cooperation under the Active Citizens Fund; ICEHR plans to conduct trainings and workshops in Iceland based on the experience of this project.