On the occasion of 3 December, International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Commissioner for Protection of Equality Brankica Jankovic draws attention that the situation regarding persons with disabilities must continue to improve, particularly when we are talking about their legal and social status.

Although there is a good legal framework, complaints addressed to the Commissioner indicate that discrimination against persons with disabilities is most visible in areas of education, labor and employment, community and social  life, access to services and information. It is very important to have good anti-discrimination laws and their full implementation.

We think that it is necessary to reform the system of deprivation of legal capacity of persons with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities. Process in our country is mainly based on full deprivation of legal capacity, while the partial deprivation remains an exception. Such practice is contrary to international instruments and standards, said the Commissioner.

As good example we welcome new bill amending the Law on Prevention of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities, which introduces the use of stamp engraved with the signature of person who has permanent physical or sensory impairment or disease. In that way they would be able to personally sign when they need to realize their rights or use some services, explained the Commissioner.

In practice, people with disabilities are often prevented from realizing their rights or are placed at a disadvantage position compared to the others. This applies particularly to women and children with the disabled who are often the victims of multiple discrimination. It is important to improve measures that make their everyday life normal and free of obstacles, says Brankica Jankovic