Does the ADA give the US moral legitimacy as a global disability rights leader?: The view from Russia and Ukraine

Human Rights play an important role in US-Russia relations. Rarely, however, are disability rights included in discussions of human rights in Russia and Eastern Europe. What are the key issues facing people with disabilities in the region today? How are recent geopolitical events affecting transnational disability justice issues? This panel brought together researchers and advocates with extensive on-the-ground experience in Russia, Ukraine, and other states in the region to address disability justice issues from abuse and confinement in institutions, to inclusive education, to accessibility in public space, to advocacy and popular representations. The panel also put this discussion into a broader perspective focusing on relevant international and U.S. disability rights legislation.

This event coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  In the current geopolitical climate, what can US advocates and allies offer to disability activists in the region?

Please contact Mattison Brady at kennan@wilsoncenter.org with accommodation requests. Please RSVP by July 17th to ensure appropriate arrangements, and/or request an interpreter.