About 70% of polling stations and other public institutions in Moldova remain inaccessible to persons with disabilities. The lack of accessibility severely limits the possibilities of persons with disabilities to engage in civic life and exercise their rights to education, employment, and independent living and other human rights. UN Moldova launches a campaign that aims to address the significant barriers that persons with disabilities face in Moldova when participating in all spheres of public and social life, IPN reports.

The campaign seeks to address the numerous barriers persons with disabilities face in Moldova, from limited accessibility in public spaces to lack of representation in political and social institutions. The full and effective participation of persons with disabilities is not only a right but also a fundamental principle of good governance. Their opinions and involvement are essential to creating inclusive, equitable, and resilient societies,” said Yesim Oruc, Resident Coordinator of UN Moldova 

He noted that this campaign is designed to transform the decision-making processes by advocating for inclusive measures and accessible environments that empower all individuals to participate in decision-making processes on equal terms. “By ensuring that the opinion of persons with disabilities matters in the decision-making process, we are not only respecting their human rights but also enriching our communities with their diverse perspectives shaping the sustainable future of Moldova,” said Yesim Oruc.

The campaign’s core message emphasizes the critical importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are meaningfully included in decision-making at all levels and their opinions are taken into consideration: “The opinion of persons with disabilities matters. Taking decisions together.”

As of early 2023, 162.3 thousand persons with disabilities, representing 6.5% of the total population, are registered in Moldova.