Activists point to shortcomings in barrier-free environment in North Ossetia

In North Ossetia, NGO activists and people with disabilities have examined ten social institutions. According to the activists, out of ten social institutions examined by them, only three institutions ensure barrier-free environment.

The participants of the examination drew their attention to the presence of ramps. They were also checking contrasting markings for steps, tactile signs, audiovisual information and reference system, availability of rest and waiting spaces, as well as WC units equipped for people with disabilities, the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent was told by the NGO activists.

Out of ten social institutions examined by the activists, only three institutions met the required standards and demands of people with disabilities. Other seven social institutions appeared to be inaccessible to people with disabilities, the organizers of the examination report. According to them, the reason for the above inaccessibility is in the lack of funds for the implementation of the measures under the programme "Accessible Environment".

"Unfortunately, at present, in North Ossetia, the positive examples of customized social facilities can be counted on the fingers. We cannot say that there are no positive changes in this direction; however, in comparison with the needs of people with disabilities, these positive changes are still insufficient," the "Caucasian Knot" correspondent was told by Roman Kudrenko, a member of All-Russia People's Front, Chairman of the regional public organization "World of Sounds", when he commented on the results of the examination carried out by the activists.

Full text of the article is available on the Russian page of 24/7 Internet agency ‘Caucasian Knot’.