Self-determination for people with disabilities: An evening of inclusion in Feldkirch

Self-determination for people with disabilities: An evening of inclusion in Feldkirch

The seventh public meeting of the Vorarlberg Monitoring Committee (VMA) recently took place in the AK Hall in Feldkirch. Under the motto “My way, my life, my human right!” The important topic of “de-institutionalization” was highlighted. The focus was on the rights of people with disabilities, who, according to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, have the right to live independently and make decisions about their living situation. These topics were clearly discussed by experts and those affected.

The State Ombudsman Klaus Feurstein emphasized unequivocally that people with disabilities should have the same rights as everyone else when it comes to making decisions about their living conditions. But Tobias Buchner, who represents the national perspectives in the Independent Monitoring Committee, makes it clear that homes continue to dominate in Austria and that there is a lack of a comprehensive plan to expand community-based support services and dismantle facilities such as homes.

The challenges of de-institutionalization

Professor Dr. Markus Schefer, member of the UN expert committee, explained the challenges of de-institutionalization in his presentation. He pointed out that the current situation in Austria is inadequate and there is a lack of strategies, suitable housing and individual support services. “There is no individual right – that is not acceptable,” said Schefer. He shared his findings from the Austrian state audit in 2023, in which these grievances became clear.

The event was designed to be accessible, including sign language interpretation and a live stream, to ensure access to a wide audience. A significant part of the session was dedicated to personal experiences. Paul Stark, an agricultural laborer with a high level of support needs, reported together with his mother and his companion what life can be like without institutional structures. In November, Paul will be honored by the Chamber of Agriculture for ten years of professional service, an achievement that symbolizes the long and often arduous path to inclusion.

The challenges Paul and his family experienced reflect the reality of many people living in similar situations. “Nothing about Paul’s inclusive journey is a given,” his mother explained, highlighting the ongoing effort needed to secure the necessary support and funding.

The session also offered numerous opportunities for participants to actively participate. Various topics were discussed in so-called exchange tables, from inclusion options to personal experiences of life without institutions. The discussion was intense, underlining the urgency and importance of the topic.

A remarkable comparison came from Professor Schefer, who pointed out that people with disabilities were not yet aware of the injustice in apartheid policies. His statement led the participants to recognize the need for social and political change.

For those interested, the results of the meeting as well as a comprehensive 7-page discussion basis are available online. The entire stream of the event can also be viewed on YouTube. Further details and information can be found in the report from www.vol.at.