The active and informed participation of people with disabilities in all decisions affecting them is a fundamental prerequisite for their equal participation. People with disabilities have the right to participate in social decision-making processes. Which topics and areas they concern with should be interpreted broadly like the ticket to work program.
Ticket to work program: Participation of people with disability in politics
People with disabilities should also be involved in decision-making processes that affect general things. Some examples of these are infrastructure planning, health policy measures or budgetary issues. Although these are not directly related to people with disabilities, as a result, however, their specific rights are indirectly affected.
This can often only be properly assessed after consultation with people with disabilities. Irrespective of this, consultation processes should also be designed to be inclusive and accessible in non-disability-specific areas. A human rights-oriented policy requires close consultation with the active involvement of people with disabilities in basically all areas of life.
The effective participation of people with disabilities should meet certain requirements. For example, it should be timely, systematic and open. In addition, ensure that the full spectrum of people with disabilities is consulted. Disability or age-appropriate assistance or other support must be provided and financed for this. In principle, children, young people and adults with disabilities can participate in decision-making processes, regardless of the type of impairment they have. This consultation can be done through organizations representing people with disabilities.
Ticket to work: Central concerns for the participation of people with disability in politics
Accessible participation procedures: All participation procedures should be made transparent and accessible. It is important that people of all disabilities, including children with disabilities, are consulted at an early stage. This also includes making materials available in accessible formats, setting appropriate deadlines and establishing rules of procedure together with organizations for people with disabilities.
Broad thematic involvement: People with disabilities and their representative organizations should be involved in the full range of legislative, administrative and other policies that directly or indirectly affect the rights of all people. Consultation processes in non-disability areas should also be made inclusive and accessible.
Creation of suitable framework conditions: Organizations of people with disabilities must be equipped with their capacities and finances. This way, they can ensure the effective participation of people with disabilities in the decision-making processes. This empowerment includes, among other things, providing financial support, and building and strengthening capacity and skills.