At least a third of Ukraine's population is in particular need of inclusive spaces and opportunities. In particular, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Russia, more than 300,000 Ukrainians have officially received the status of a person with a disability.
This was reported by First Lady Olena Zelenska, UNN reports.
More than 300,000 Ukrainians have officially received the status of a person with a disability since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. More than eight million Ukrainian citizens are elderly and have corresponding difficulties in everyday life. Another seven million Ukrainians are children who are not yet able to do everything. It turns out that at least a third of the population is in particular need of inclusive space and opportunities. Especially because, in fact, at some point in our lives, each of us needs them
According to her, that's why back in 2020 she initiated the Big Conversation on Barrier-Free Access, a survey on the state portal Diia, which was attended by more than 50,000 Ukrainians.
The state's 2030 Barrier-Free Strategy, a roadmap for creating a country that is comfortable for everyone, took into account all the most important issues. After all, the goal is barrier-free access in all its manifestations: physical, informational, social, digital, educational, and economic. Therefore, during all my foreign visits, I gather experience useful for the implementation of the strategy
She said that today in the United States she is meeting with activists from SEEC, an organization that helps people with disabilities live independently and fully in society - live in separate housing, study, work, and have fun.
"During a roundtable discussion with Karen Lee, Executive Director of SEEC, and Carol Beatty, Secretary of Maryland's Office of Disability Services, I learned how a network of assistants works to help people with disabilities cope with everyday challenges and inspire confidence in themselves and their abilities," Zelenska wrote.
She noted that Ukraine is just introducing supported living projects, where a person with a disability learns to live separately.
"So we are particularly appreciative of advice in this area. She told us about our Ukrainian experience and our desire to create the best environment for people of all physical conditions and ages. Our society will come out of the war imposed by Russia more hardened, but also more humane - because we are doing everything for this," Zelenska added.