China is the most populous country in the world and has a significant population of individuals with disabilities. Despite progress in recent years, people with disabilities in China continue to face significant challenges in various aspects of their lives. In this article, we will discuss common attitudes to disability in China, discrimination and legislation issues, public transport and building access, and any lobbying/advocacy groups available for individuals with disabilities.
Attitudes to Disability
China has a history of Confucianism, which emphasizes social hierarchy and emphasizes duty and responsibility within relationships. The attitudes towards disability in China are therefore heavily influenced by this cultural context. Historically, disability was often viewed as a punishment for a past transgression or a bad family karma. People with disabilities were often stigmatized and discriminated against, as they were seen as a burden on their families and society.
However, in recent years, there has been a shift in attitudes towards disability in China. The government has taken measures to promote equal opportunities and social inclusion for people with disabilities. There is also increasing awareness and acceptance of disability among the general population.
Discrimination and Legislation
Despite the shift in attitudes, people with disabilities in China still face significant discrimination in various aspects of their lives. Discrimination in employment, education, and social participation are common. Some employers still discriminate against people with disabilities in their hiring process, and many schools are not accessible to children with disabilities.
There have been efforts to improve legislation to protect the rights of people with disabilities in China. In 2008, China ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The CRPD is an international treaty that aims to promote, protect, and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities.
China also passed the Law on the Protection of Persons with Disabilities in 2008. This law mandates that public facilities, transportation, and communication systems must be accessible to people with disabilities. The law also stipulates that employers must not discriminate against job seekers with disabilities and that all schools must admit students with disabilities.
Public Transport and Building Access
Accessibility in public transport and building infrastructure in China is a significant challenge for people with disabilities. Many public transport systems, such as buses and trains, are not accessible to individuals with disabilities. This lack of access to public transport makes it difficult for people with disabilities to travel and participate fully in society.
Building access is also an issue in China, with many buildings and public spaces being inaccessible to people with disabilities. While the Law on the Protection of Persons with Disabilities mandates that public facilities must be accessible, implementation of this law has been slow, and many buildings still do not provide adequate access.
Lobbying/Advocacy Groups
There are several advocacy groups in China that work to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Some of these groups include:
China Disabled Persons’ Federation – This is the largest advocacy group for people with disabilities in China. The organization provides services and support to people with disabilities, and works to promote their rights and interests. Website: http://www.cdpf.org.cn
Beijing Disabled Persons’ Federation – This organization provides services and support to people with disabilities in Beijing. They work to improve accessibility in the city and promote the rights of people with disabilities. Website: http://www.bjdpf.org.cn
Disabled People’s International China – This is a branch of Disabled People’s International, an international organization that works to promote the rights of people with disabilities. The China branch works to promote disability rights in China and provide support to people with disabilities. Website: http://dpi.org/china/
Conclusion
While there are still many challenges facing people with disabilities in China, the country has made significant progress in recent years. Legislation has been passed to protect the rights of people with disabilities, and the government has launched several initiatives to improve their lives. However, more work needs to be done to improve accessibility and eliminate discrimination. Advocacy groups in China are working hard to promote disability rights and provide support to people with disabilities.