The Institution of the President of the Republic Hosts a Welcoming Event for Individuals with Special Needs
On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Institution of the President of the Republic opened its doors to welcome individuals with special needs, as well as organizations and activists working towards the respect of their rights.
President Bajram Begaj shared experiences from his visits across various municipalities concerning the treatment of individuals with disabilities by Albanian society and its institutions.
President Begaj highlighted the municipality of Vau i Dejës, where the number of these individuals is high and societal acceptance is challenging, the municipality of Roskovec, where parents are heavily involved and work with their children with the support of the community center, and the Institute for People who are Blind and Deaf, where significant efforts are made to harness the special abilities of children, especially in arts.
“Disability is not just a public health issue; it is a matter related to human rights and social development,” emphasized President Begaj. Highlighting progress in the legal framework, President Begaj stated that work should not stop there: “We have a joint responsibility to carry forward this mission, focusing our efforts in several key directions. Employment is not just an economic opportunity; it is a key to dignity and independence for every individual. Accessibility is another aspect that needs improvement.
From physical infrastructure to information and communication, we must ensure that every individual has full and equal access to public spaces. This is a fundamental right, not a luxury. Furthermore, we need to create the prerequisites for persons with disabilities to live independently, according to their choices and priorities.”
President Begaj particularly praised foreign donors who support the social integration of persons with disabilities, such as the American Embassy in Tirana, USAID projects, and those of the European Union.
He also sent a special message to all organizations and families contributing to the support of persons with disabilities: “You are a true example of commitment and courage. Your mission to support and empower such communities is fundamental to building a stronger, more inclusive Albania.”
In efforts to solidify a more inclusive culture towards persons with disabilities, to provide adequate supportive services in compliance with legal obligations for both children and adults, the President reaffirmed his stance to stand by activists with such missions: “As President, I commit to supporting better implementation of policies that promote equality and accessibility. Also, I invite every institution and citizen to join this effort.”
Focusing on children with special needs, President Begaj noted they require personalized services, educational support, developmental therapies, and resources to enable a more fulfilling life.
During the event, President Begaj familiarized himself with the programs of organizations and activists serving persons with disabilities, and also attended performances by artists with special needs.
