The Malta Federation of Organisations Persons with Disability (MFOPD) made a significant impact at the 5th European Parliament of Persons with Disability.
The event, which took place in the hemicycle of the European Parliament in Brussels, brought together 600 disability advocates from across the European Union to discuss the advancement of disability rights within the EU.
During the event, Gayle Mugliette represented MFOPD and delivered a powerful speech. She shared her positive personal experience of being supported by a Personal Assistant and expressed her hope that all individuals with disabilities would have access to such assistance without encountering any obstacles. She also highlighted a concerning issue in Malta: some persons with disabilities are still unable to exercise their right to vote in secrecy.
The European Parliament of Persons with Disability marked a significant milestone with the adoption of the European Disability Forum’s Manifesto on the 2024 European Elections.
This manifesto serves as a roadmap for the European Disability Forum’s campaign for next year’s elections and emphasises the movement’s demands to be fully involved in the political process.
Key elements of the manifesto include ensuring the right to vote and stand as candidates for persons with disabilities in European elections, the establishment of strong services focusing on disability rights within EU institutions, the creation of a new European agency for accessibility, the adoption of an EU-wide Disability Card for mutual recognition of disability status, and the introduction of legislation to guarantee the availability and affordability of assistive technologies.
Additionally, the manifesto emphasises the need for further protection of women and girls with disabilities, support for Ukrainians with disabilities, and the inclusion of disability considerations in the EU’s budget, green transition, and digital transformation.
The participation of the Malta Federation of Organisations Persons with Disability at this event reflects their dedication to advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities at both the national and European levels.
Photo Source: EDF / MOFPD
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