A Rights-Based Perspective: How Does the European Union Define Disability, and What Solutions Does It Offer Us?
For years, disability was seen merely as a matter of “assistance,” “pity,” or “health,” wasn’t it? But times have changed! Today, we have a brand-new perspective that is much stronger, more impactful, and relevant to all of us: the rights-based approach.
The European Union (EU) is one of the leading advocates of this remarkable change. According to the EU, disability is not a shortcoming on your part or mine; it is a state of inequality created by the barriers that streets, websites, and society impose on us. So, how does the EU apply this perspective to everyday life? Let’s take a closer look.
An Equal Place at the Table for Everyone: Core Values
At the heart of the EU lies an unwavering respect for human dignity, freedom, equality, and human rights. In other words, no one can be left behind! The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights serves as a powerful shield against discrimination and categorically rejects discrimination based on disability.
“The Union recognizes and respects the right of persons with disabilities to benefit from measures that ensure their independence, social and occupational integration, and participation in community life.”
— EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, Article 26 (Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities)
From Paper to Real Life: What Are Our Goals?
It’s great that laws exist, but the real challenge is putting them into practice on the ground! This is where the EU Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2021–2030) comes into play. The goal is very clear: “full and equal” access in education, the workplace, and public spaces.
“People with disabilities should be able to fully participate in all areas of life on an equal footing with others, live independently, and make their own decisions in social life. Accessibility is a prerequisite for the exercise of these rights.”
— European Union Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2021–2030)
This vision goes hand in hand with the European Youth Goals, which directly concern us. In particular, these three points serve as a compass for us as young people with visual impairments:
- Participatory Democracy: Knowing our rights, defending them, and being able to sit at the same table with decision-makers.
- Inclusion and Diversity: Making physical spaces and digital platforms (yes, screen-reader-friendly websites!) accessible to everyone.
- Education and Learning: To fully experience equal opportunity in education without any barriers.
Solution: Change Starts with You!
This incredible vision presented by the EU cannot be realized unless we, as young people, get out there and take the initiative. A rights-based struggle is not about simply waiting—it’s about taking action.
Are there accessibility barriers at the government building you visited? Or are you unable to complete a transaction on an agency’s website? That’s exactly when it’s up to you to identify the problem, write a formal complaint to that agency, advocate for a solution, and stand up for your rights!
“The European Youth Goals aim to ensure that all young people in society—especially disadvantaged and disabled youth—are included, that young people have easy access to information, and that they can shape their own futures by engaging in constructive dialogue with decision-makers.”
— European Youth Goals (Goal 3: Inclusive Societies)
In short, a life without barriers is not a privilege—it is our most fundamental right. Breaking down societal barriers is a shared responsibility for all of us, from public institutions to civil society. As young people who know, explore, and defend our rights, we will build this inclusive future together!
REFERENCES / FOR MORE INFORMATION:
- European Commission (2021). Union of Equality: Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021–2030. Brussels . Available at: ec.europa.eu
- European Union (2012). Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. (2012/C 326/02), Articles 21 and 26. Available at: eur-lex.europa.eu
- European Youth Portal (2018). European Youth Goals: Knowledge for Inclusive Societies and Young People. Available at: youth.europa.eu
- United Nations (2006). Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Available at: un.org