People describe life beyond institutions
EVPIT board member Vjatseslav Zagorski described becoming independent after leaving an institution. “Our lives must be up to us,” he said. Estonian social-protection minister Signe Riisalo addressed accessibility and easy-to-read information, while speakers discussed the support they needed from families, organisations and other self-advocates. [1]
Voices from Ukraine and Romania
Fifteen-year-old Ukrainian advocate Anton Onyshchuk said he wanted to learn from other participants and defend his rights. Romanian advocate Elisabeta Moldovan described using her own experience of institutions in campaigning and monitoring. Sessions also examined how families could support people’s decisions and participation. Their experiences informed the shared demands. [1]
A manifesto sets concrete expectations
Published by Inclusion Europe on 13 November, the Make it Real! manifesto calls for paid jobs, inclusive education, accessible healthcare and the freedom to choose where and with whom to live. It also demands support for decision-making, the right to refuse and the right to vote. [3]