Persons with disabilities demand institutional support and accessibility
Individuals with disabilities in Albania marked the International Day of Persons with Disabilities by highlighting systemic barriers and calling for urgent reforms. In Durrës and Elbasan, paraplegics, tetraplegics, and their families emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, adequate financial support, and greater government accountability.
Why is this important: Despite existing laws aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities, the community continues to face severe challenges in employment, mobility, and basic dignity. The state’s financial support is seen as inadequate, and bureaucratic hurdles exacerbate their struggles, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and hardship. While the protests took place in Elbasan and Durrës the problems and issues this community faces are the same throughout the country.
Forgotten communities: The problems the community faces are very similar in both cities. Durrës, which is home to over 10,000 individuals with disabilities, has seen minimal improvements in accessibility. Financial struggles compound these challenges. Caregiver support payments are capped at 13,000 ALL (€110) per month, leaving families struggling to meet basic needs. A petition submitted by local advocacy groups has gone unanswered by authorities, further eroding trust in institutions.
In Elbasan, where 350 individuals are registered as paraplegics, the struggles are equally stark. Annual disability evaluations, even for lifelong conditions, are a constant source of frustration. Families argue these evaluations are unnecessary and disrespectful, treating their permanent diagnoses as temporary issues.
What’s next: With Albania aspiring to European integration, advocates stress that ensuring dignity and accessibility for persons with disabilities must be a priority. The disability community continues to call for:
- Higher caregiver allowances.
- Permanent recognition for irreversible disabilities.
- Accessible infrastructure in public and private spaces.
- Greater employment opportunities.
For many, this day is not just a moment of reflection but a call to action for addressing long-standing injustices. Without immediate reforms, Albania risks falling further behind in meeting international standards for inclusivity and equality.
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