Romania has now joined the European Union. It is an exciting time of change, but also a painful one for some people who may expect immediate resolutions to problems faced by vulnerable groups, especially people with disabilities. There is still a huge need for modernisation of systems, particularly the dismantling of large scale institutions and the provision of more appropriate and humane services for the disabled in Romania.
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| HAO will continue to work through its partner organisation FVB in Romania in order to achieve its aims of inclusion, choice and dignity for people with disabilities. |
Membership of the EU will undoubtedly bring change for the good, but change will happen slowly and reforms in the disability sector are a particular challenge in a country with such a negative legacy from the Ceaucescu era. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as FVB, face a tough battle to get support and recognition for their work on behalf of people with disabilities, both from governmental authorities and from the general public.
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With this in mind, HAO will continue to work with FVB to advocate on behalf of people with disabilities, with awareness-raising programmes on disability issues aimed at the general public in Romania as well as governmental agencies, the business community and the media.
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| The EU Commissioner for Human Rights and several high profile international advocacy organisations have repeatedly drawn attention to the lack of adequate support for people with disabilities in Romania. There is still much work to be done. |
