A little over one year ago, the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities entered into force in the Netherlands. This treaty states that anyone with a handicap should be able to fully and independently participate in society.

The Netherlands Institute for Human Rights (the Institute) monitors the implementation of the treaty. It publishes an annual report with an overview of positive developments, bottlenecks and recommendations for the government. The experiences of people with disabilities are invaluable for this.

Strong response

After the Institute published a call, almost 1,000 disabled persons and parents of children with disabilities filled out a survey about their experiences in the field of employment, education, housing and accessibility.

Participants had a visual, auditive, physical, mental or psychological disability or chronic disease. Deaf people have the possibility to answer the questions with a sign language interpreter.

Additionally, the Institute organizes group conversations with people with a mental disorder, so that they are able to share their experiences as well.

Around December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Institute will publish their research.