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Different organisations in Germany said that
a new law is needed to make sure persons with disabilities are included. This law should make sure that persons with disabilities get the support they need to live independently and be included in society. One of these organisations was Lebenshilfe. Lebenshilfe helps persons with disabilities in Germany. |
Five associations active in the disability field called for a new federal law to govern the provision of support services for persons with disabilities. The associations, including Inclusion Europe’s member Bundesvereinigung Lebenshilfe, discussed the fundamental principles of such legislation with high-level members of Bundestag and officials from ministries on 25 June. The podium discussion was moderated by Klaus Lachwitz, the President of Inclusion International.
Persons with disabilities have the right to take part in the life of society on an equal basis with others. Up to now, the necessary support and assistance was provided within the framework of the social security benefits. This has to change, says the joint statement published by the five associations which represent about 90% of the services and facilities provided to persons with intellectual, psycho-social, physical and multiple disabilities in Germany.
They called for a new legal basis for support services of persons with disabilities which would be independent from the social security benefits system. About 200 experts and representatives from the German Parliament and ministries discussed the basis for such a law on June 25.
Every person has an equal right to take part in society. To enjoy this right, persons with disabilities need appropriate support which should be guaranteed by the State regardless of an individual’s financial situation. This is the way to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy the right to live independently on an equal basis with others.
Furthermore, the organisations have requested a supplementary compensation that would help persons with disabilities to cover the extra cost related to disability. Article 3 of the German Basic Law stipulates that “no person shall be disfavoured because of disability.”
To read the position paper ‘Principles for Federal Law on services for persons with disabilities’, click here. The document is in the German language.
Source: Bundesvereinigung Lebenshilfe
