Tim za socijalno uključivanje i smanjenje siromaštva

The Ombudsman, the Standing Conference of Towns and Municipalities, and the Social Inclusion and Poverty Reduction Unit of the Government of the Republic of Serbia signed a Cooperation Agreement today, aiming to improve the status of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable population groups in the Republic of Serbia.

Marking 10 December, the international Human Rights Day, the signatories to the Agreement wish to turn public attention towards the unfavourable status of persons with disabilities in the Republic of Serbia, comprising 8 percent of its total population. Due to limited access to education, the labour market and services, this vulnerable group is at a pronounced risk of poverty and social exclusion.

The Cooperation Agreement envisages, as of this year, the awarding of a Prize for improving accessibility in local self-government units that have contributed the most to the development of all forms of accessibility. This will promote good practice examples and the exchange of experiences at the local level, regarding the improvement of the accessibility of public facilities and services for persons with disabilities and mobility or communication impairments.

Despite the solid legislative and strategic framework, as well as numerous initiatives by the public and civil sector, persons with disabilities face obstacles in their daily activities regarding mobility, use of transportation, as well as making use of the right to information and communication.

The design of facilities and services having accessibility standards in mind makes these facilities and services safer and more comfortable for use, not only for persons with disabilities, but for all citizens of this state.