1/10/2020
The eternal priority topic in the overall life of people with disabilities, especially those with physical disabilities, is accessibility. For more than a decade and a half, ie two decades, Mobility Bitola had this topic as a priority. We have said that accessibility is not just an architectural barrier; it is a complex of problems that intertwine in overall living (communication, relationship, work, marriage and family, etc.). A very important, if not the most important segment in the realization of better accessibility is the local self-government. It is invaluable in the lives of people with physical disabilities, when words and promises are translated into deeds, which are then upgraded and upgraded.
More than two decades ago, the process of initial overcoming of architectural barriers in state institutions began, which was mediated by USAID (IOM) from 2002 to 2004, with 17 ramps and 35 access points on the main street. From 2004 to 2006, parking lots were marked and sidewalks were adapted. Since then, accessibility efforts have been made on several occasions, first to the municipality and then to other institutions. After 15 years, the first step has been taken - the municipality installs platforms and fixes the ground floor. This step is welcome, but it is not complete. Accessibility of the other two floors (there are elaborations) with adaptation of at least one toilet is expected for the next step. We hope that the initial point will start the process that will not stop and will justify the two-decade engagement of the local self-government. We hope that the process will continue in some primary schools, as well as in specialized schools for children with disabilities. With this trend we hope that the accessibility and repair of the (neglected) inclusive playground will also be solved, on whose board, besides the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy and Mobility Macedonia, stands the name od the Municipality of Bitola, as a guarantee that the playground will function and will achieve the purpose for which it was built. This is just the tip of the iceberg waiting for realization, not all at once and not much content, but one by one, in a process that will continue without stopping. The necessity, in addition to being noted at the UN Convention, is an imperative to enter European waters and standards that do not tolerate improvisation and manipulation. Let's hope that the process will finally start, and we welcome and support all initiatives and realizations.
