Celebrating choice – for all
The European Independent Living Day is celebrated on 5 May. It focuses on the right of persons with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in society. The day is a way to highlight the importance of autonomy, self-determination, and equal opportunities, while raising awareness of the barriers that still prevent many people from exercising these rights.
The Independent Living movement emerged from disability rights activism and has become a cornerstone of disability policy across Europe. It is closely linked to Article 19 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which recognises the right of all persons with disabilities to live independently and be included in the community.
Despite significant progress, many challenges remain. Across Europe, people with disabilities continue to face barriers not only with lack of accessibility, but also limited possibilities to decide over their own lives. Like the right to make mistakes, your own mistakes.
A hard-won achievement we must protect
In Sweden, personal assistance is widely recognised as a fundamental tool for enabling independent living and full participation in society.
Unlike traditional care services, personal assistance is based on the individual’s needs and choices. The person receiving assistance directs how, when, and by whom support is provided. This user-led model has made Sweden an international example of how disability policy can promote autonomy, dignity, and social inclusion.
Personal assistance is not simply a social service, but a prerequisite for exercising basic human rights. Support is important, but not enough. Adolf Ratzka, the disability rights advocate whose efforts were instrumental in establishing the right to personal assistance in Swedish law, said:
“Since we are the best experts on our needs, we (…), need to be in charge of our lives, think and speak for ourselves – just as everybody else.”
That is what personal assistance is about. Enabling people to contribute to society according to their own aspirations and abilities. Just as everyone else.
Global Accessibility Awareness Day may be more known in our industry, but Independent Living is a core principle for equality.
European Network for Independent Living, opens in a new window