On January 21, Cherkasy hosted a training on “Equal Rights: How to Counteract Discrimination based on Disability in the Context of Internal Displacement.” Local residents, internally displaced persons (IDPs), including those with disabilities, and social workers attended the event.
The event was held as part of the “United Voices in Action” program implemented by the international organization IREX together with the CF “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the US Department of State.
Internally displaced persons in Ukraine often face a number of problems, including psychological stress, anxiety, fatigue, economic difficulties, etc. Persons with disabilities find themselves in a more difficult situation, as they often also face discrimination — a direct violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms in various spheres of life.
Trainer Natalia Openko, who is the regional coordinator of the “Unite for Action” program in Cherkasy region, noted that many participants were surprised by the topic of the training, as the issue of discrimination based on disability is rarely discussed. If a person does not have such experience and disability, then such concerns seem to not exist for them.
“When analyzing specific cases, it turned out that many situations typically perceived as ordinary are manifestations of discrimination. The topic aroused interest, especially in the adaptation of people with disabilities in a new place and the psychological challenges they face,” the trainer noted.
During the training, the participants discussed
the main barriers to discrimination based on disability in the context of internal displacement
how to act for people who have been discriminated against: what to do, where to go, what evidence to collect
what support programs and social services exist for people with disabilities, including IDPs, and other issues.
Under the guidance of Natalia Openko, the training participants analyzed practical situations in the mini-group format.
“Such trainings can change the situation in society. They draw attention to the problem and make people who do not have their own traumatic experience think that there are people who need help nearby,” the trainer is convinced.
Training participant Iryna confirmed that the topic is important and relevant. After all, the problems of IDPs, both social and psychological, remain, and they are not getting smaller.
“Unfortunately, the number of people with disabilities is also increasing due to the war in the country. It is very important that these people have equal opportunities and know where to go for help if they need it,” said Iryna.
Oleksandr, a social worker who also participated in the event, noted that he received important answers to his questions.
“It often happens that discrimination against people with disabilities, especially among IDPs, is not obvious, but it does exist. Therefore, it is important to know in what forms it manifests itself. It was also useful to learn what can be done to prevent discrimination or how to help a person subjected to such actions,” said a training participant.
The event will also be held in other regions of Ukraine that are envisaged by the project. In total, the “United Voices in Action” program is being implemented in 18 regions. “United Voices in Action” is a program that empowers internally displaced persons to become leaders in community cohesion, lead support structures, increase their resilience, and contribute to Ukraine’s national recovery.
IDPs can also take advantage of free legal advice by completing a form.
This article was made possible as part of the United Voices in Action program, implemented by the international organization IREX together with the Ukrainian Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and with the support of the U.S. Department of State. The content is the sole responsibility of the Charity Foundation “Stabilization Support Services” and does not necessarily reflect the views of IREX or the US Department of State.