Description
The project aims at enhancing participation of blind and visually impaired people in public decision-making processes. Blind people should be brought closer to public authorities and should be shown how public authorities work in practice. We want to show them the mechanisms of democratic decision-making. We will organise visits of blind and visually impaired people at sessions of local government councils, the Parliament, and committees of the bodies. Subsequent discussions on their impressions and conclusions will enable them to better understand the mechanisms of democratic system, and to realise the opportunities to influence public affairs. Social engagement of blind people and enhancing their participation in public life require support, in view of multiple objective and subjective barriers.
Summary of project results
"The interest of blind persons in social problems is low. Everyday life problems, gaining and performing a profession require from them much more efforts than is the case for fully able people. So often they just have no time to get interested in social issues. As a result, the influence of disabled persons on decisions taken by public authorities in the key matters for them (such as architectural accessibility, access to information, goods and services) is minimum. The aim of the project was to show to blind persons how public authorities work and to encourage them to take matters that are important to them in their own hands. The long-term aim was to achieve a situation where disabled persons are present, with the same rights as fully able persons, in elected bodies. The project contributed to enhancing the level of knowledge of blind persons on the competencies of public government bodies and the mechanisms of their operations. They became more convinced that citizens can influence the realities. The most active participants of the project participated in advocacy initiatives. A group of persons was selected who wanted to be more active in social affairs. The project benefited 62 blind and visually impaired persons. As observers, they took part in the sessions of the Parliament, the Senate, the City Council and the special committees of the bodies, as well as in meetings dedicated to social consultations and advocacy. The ""Civil Guidebook"" was prepared containing information on various public government bodies. A film was also prepared on advocacy activities in the matters concerning persons with disabilities."
Summary of bilateral results