Turkey is a country situated in Eurasia, bordered by eight countries and surrounded by three seas. It is a country rich in history and culture, with a population of over 80 million people. Disability in Turkey has been a topic of discussion for many years, with various organizations and groups working towards improving the lives of people with disabilities. In this article, we will explore the common attitudes towards disability in Turkey, discrimination and legislation issues, public transport and building access for people with disabilities, and advocacy groups in the country.
Attitudes Towards Disability in Turkey
Like many other countries, attitudes towards disability in Turkey have been shaped by cultural, religious, and societal factors. Historically, people with disabilities were often viewed as a burden on their families and society. There was a lack of understanding of the different types of disabilities and how they could affect an individual’s life.
However, in recent years, there has been a shift in attitudes towards disability in Turkey. There is now more awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities, and the importance of providing equal opportunities and accessibility. Many disability rights organizations and advocacy groups have played a significant role in raising awareness and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities.
Discrimination and Legislation Issues
Despite the progress made in recent years, people with disabilities in Turkey still face discrimination and challenges in accessing basic rights and services. Discrimination can occur in various forms, such as exclusion from education, employment, and public services.
One of the main legislative documents that protect the rights of people with disabilities in Turkey is the Law on Disabled People. This law was introduced in 2005 and provides guidelines for the protection of the rights of people with disabilities, including accessibility to public spaces, education, and employment. However, despite the legal protections in place, implementation has been slow, and many barriers remain for people with disabilities in accessing their basic rights.
Public Transport and Building Access
Public transport and building access remain a significant challenge for people with disabilities in Turkey. Many public transport systems, including buses and trains, lack the necessary infrastructure to accommodate people with disabilities. For example, many buses do not have wheelchair ramps or designated spaces for wheelchair users.
Building access is also a significant challenge, with many public buildings and facilities lacking the necessary infrastructure to accommodate people with disabilities. In recent years, there has been some progress towards improving accessibility, such as the introduction of wheelchair ramps and elevators in public buildings. However, there is still a long way to go in providing equal access for people with disabilities in Turkey.
Advocacy Groups
There are several advocacy groups and organizations working towards improving the lives of people with disabilities in Turkey. These groups provide support, resources, and advocacy for people with disabilities and their families. Some of the notable organizations include:
- Disabled Women’s Association of Turkey (TSD): This organization advocates for the rights of women with disabilities and works towards improving their social and economic status.
- Turkish Federation of the Deaf (TSD): This organization advocates for the rights of deaf people and works towards improving access to education, employment, and public services.
- Turkish Association of the Blind (TURSAB): This organization provides support and resources for blind people and advocates for their rights and inclusion in society.
In conclusion, disability in Turkey remains a significant challenge, with people with disabilities facing discrimination and barriers to accessing their basic rights and services. However, there has been progress in recent years towards improving accessibility and increasing awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. Advocacy groups and organizations have played a significant role in this progress, and their work remains vital in ensuring equal opportunities and rights for people with disabilities in Turkey.