The current status of disability activism and non‐governmental organizations in post‐communist Europe: preliminary findings based on reports from the field

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to conduct qualitative research on the disability rights and independent living movement in post‐communist Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Specifically, the research focused on the Visegrad Four countries of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland and Hungary. Field research involving key informant interviews with 17 disability activists and non‐governmental organization (NGO) leaders was conducted. Interviews consisted of an open method of inquiry with the key informants. Extensive analysis of transcripts is ongoing, but the urgent need for international reporting on disability issues, particularly regarding regions undergoing a great deal of political transition and civil society development, necessitates a preliminary report on this research at this time. Preliminary findings suggest the following. (1) Disability activism and NGO leadership in the Visegrad Four countries has, with a few exceptions, favored a consensus‐based approach to development, with emphases on service provision rather than disability rights. (2) Entry into the European Union (EU) has resulted in more explicit policies concerning disability rights, but has brought only limited changes in practical terms for citizens with disabilities due to a lack of implementation methods on the part of the state, lack of an emphasis on disability rights on the part of most NGOs and few consequences for those who transgress stated policies. (3) While some changes have occurred with regard to the physical conditions of institutional settings, little has changed across the Visegrad Four countries with regards to commitment, guardianship and involuntary treatment procedures, resulting in a continued problem of individuals with disabilities (particularly mental disabilities) losing independence and personal sovereignty as a result of receiving treatment. It is tentatively concluded that North American and EU agencies and international NGOs forming partnerships with disability organizations in the Visegrad Four countries need to recognize the strong trend towards consensus rather than conflict models for advancement in disability issues. International assistance in the provision of resources, consultation and capacity building is imperative if disability rights and independent living is to advance at a desired rate in the Visegrad Four countries.

Keywords:

• postcommunist
• disability
• NGO
• activist
• independent living

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by a Mary E. Switzer Distinguished Fellowship in Rehabilitation Research, National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR), US Department of Education (Award no. H133F050023). The author wishes to thank Jan Fiala (Mental Disability Advocacy Centre, Budapest) for his invaluable assistance in this research, and all of the disability activists and NGO leaders who participated in this international research effort.