#IncludeNews brings you updates about work done for inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities in Europe. This post is updated during the month.
Previously on #IncludeNews: July and August 2023.
EU Disability Card
The European Commission proposed to create a European Disability Card to improve free movement for persons with disabilities.
- The proposal is “making sure they can, on an equal basis, access special conditions, preferential treatment, and parking rights when visiting another Member State.”
European Disability Card
The European disability movement welcomes this proposal.
- It has been a longstanding demand first presented 10 years ago.
- “We are glad that the proposal expands the scope of the Card according to the disability movement’s demands.
- “We especially appreciate the correct interpretation that non-nationals who are EU citizens visiting another country will get the same benefits as nationals in a wide range of services, including transport or commercial discounts.”
The proposal includes also a new EU Parking card for persons with disabilities.
Inclusion Europe is also please to see easy to read version of the announcement.
- It is another example of easy to read being increasingly used to inform about the work and proposals of European Union institutions.
The Commission’s proposal will be discussed by the European Parliament and the Council.
- If adopted, EU countries would have 18 months to incorporate the provisions of the Directive into national law.
The Council’s positive action programme for trainees with a disability
The Council provides up to six paid traineeships per year to EU nationals with a recognised disability. As soon as trainees are selected, the Council will be in touch with the candidates to discuss any needs they have and ensure that they have all the necessary software, hardware, or ergonomic equipment from the start of their traineeship.
Read more here.
State of the European Union
The president of the European Commission speaks in front of the European Parliament every year in September.
The speech is called State of the European Union.
Here is EDF summary and reaction to this year’s speech.
European elections 2024
The elections will be on 7 – 9 June 2024.
EDF made a survey of what young disability activists want from the elections.
Tamara Byrne, who represents Inclusion Europe in EDF Youth Committee, contributed.
- “I would like to see a system in place that allows young people with disabilities to access a fully inclusive higher education, where we can freely choose the courses and experiences that we would like to participate in.
- “Having a support model would mean being included in classes with all other college students, not a class with a group of students with disabilities.
- “Young people with intellectual disabilities have the rights to an education and should be able to decide which college and courses we would like to attend without having barriers.”
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