Dutch disability advocates bring independent living concerns to UN review

Event

15/08/2024

On 15 August 2024, the Netherlands faced its first review by the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Disabled people and their organisations had briefed the committee two days earlier. Ieder(in), part of that delegation, later described how their experience fed into questions on the government’s record.

Self-advocates help set the questions

Policy officers Xan Koster and Lydia Vlagsma described preparation with the European Disability Forum and International Disability Alliance. Delegates including Jiska Ogier and Roos Hoelen presented concerns. Koster said their contributions reappeared in the committee’s pointed questions; Vlagsma stressed bringing a broad range of disabled people’s experience into the room. [1]

Community support becomes a central issue

The committee’s conclusions called for a funded, time-bound plan to end institutionalisation, including small institutions. They urged stronger community services and personal support, more affordable accessible housing, and simpler municipal procedures. The recommendations linked independent living to the ability to move home without losing timely access to necessary support. [2]

Government sets out a follow-up process

In a letter dated 9 December 2024, the government described developing an action agenda with disabled people, organisations, municipalities and ministries. It acknowledged continuing accessibility gaps and said recommendations would inform themed working sessions. The letter set out a consultation and planning process rather than reporting completed implementation of the UN recommendations. [3]

Self-advocates help set the questions

Community support becomes a central issue

Government sets out a follow-up process

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