The Life of People with Disabilities in Greece: Difficulties and Obstacles
The life of people with disabilities in Greece is full of difficulties and obstacles, which are not only limited to their everyday life, but extend to all sectors of society. What is the reality of being disabled and living in Greece? First of all, yes, we know that it is not a world day. Because as we know, it is only then that we become aware of everything that should upset us. Second, disabled people: people with disabilities. Not disabled.
Accessibility problems: Ramps and Public Spaces
With the news revolving around the Paralympic Games, we can’t help but touch on the reality of the situation. Because the greatest difficulties for athletes are not encountered on the field and in training.They experience them every day from society and the surrounding area. The phrase “Greek
Paralympians bring medals to a country that has no ramps” is all over the internet. There are photos and spots circulating on all social networks that condemn bad habits we do at the expense of people with disabilities, while we upload and promote their achievements at the Paralympics. More specifically:
The beloved parking on ramp
Illegal parking on ramps is a common occurrence, creating serious obstacles for people with reduced mobility. It goes without saying, of course, that I will post the Greek Paralympians on social media while my car is parked on the ramp or on a sidewalk. Unfortunately, this is not one or two examples but the norm. Apart from bad pavements and obstacles Apart from bad pavements and obstacles (e.g. trees, objects etc.) there will always be an extra challenge: a badly parked car.
Enjoying a cup of coffee on the blind man's guide
On the streets and squares, the misuse of blind guides by citizens creates additional problems for visually impaired people. Most of the time, you inadvertently add another chair to the table, blocking the blind driver. Other times, again unintentionally, you park your motorbike there. Of course, there are times when this is done with complete disregard. Most of the time, you inadvertently add another chair to the table, blocking the blind driver. Other times, again unintentionally, you park your motorbike there. Of course, there are times when this is done with complete disregard.
Leaving the car in a disabled place
Misuse of disabled parking spaces is one of the most common offences, with many choosing to ignore their importance. Another time when I don’t want to get out of my own way and walk around a bit more. The location of disabled spaces is very specific and we should not use them even if we don’t see other spaces empty, nor if we only take two minutes.
Barriers to Social Life: Access to Entertainment
The strength and effort of all the athletes is truly admirable. But there is something that we may have overlooked. Is there any other alternative in Greece for their leisure time? For example, one person may have a hobby of going to the theatre, another may have a hobby of travelling, while another may just have a hobby of drinking.
If we think a little more about how accessible our country is, we will surely be disappointed. Stadiums and sports facilities are the most accessible places. What if someone doesn’t want to engage in sports? If he just wants to go out for a drink and have fun with his friends, he will face difficulties. For example, a person with a wheelchair will need to have made provision for parking near the venue, whether the venue has ramps, whether it has toilets etc. That is a whole survey for a – supposedly – simple drink.
Someone whose interests include video games, have all the companies made sure they have consoles and arrangements for disabled people? On social media do I post content that can be seen by everyone? Some technology companies have, of course, started to provide more solutions for people with
disabilities, but there is still a long way to go.
The examples could go on and on and create a long list. A list where at least once you have caught yourself or someone in your circle doing one of these behavior.
Paralympic Games: The Contrast with the Reality of Greece
The successes of the Greek Paralympians highlight their strength and determination, but they also highlight the contradictions of a country that does not adequately support them. We applaud and admire the Paralympic athletes, but what is our position when our country violates their rights? What is our general attitude towards achieving change.
Let’s think about the public services, are the offices suitably built for a wheelchair to pass underneath? Is public transport accessible and functional for disabled people or can they not feel confident that they will reach their destination without an obstacle?
In the working environment is there appropriate information and landscaping or only discrimination?
Unfortunately, many workplaces remain inadequate and the needs of workers with disabilities are not always taken into account.
Substantive changes with simple measures
Meaningful change comes through concrete actions that we can all take. Moreover, they undoubtedly start with simple measures that we can all support, both at the social and business level.
- Let’s actively support companies and stores that have taken steps to be accessible, such as ramps, accessible restrooms, and products that cater to people with disabilities.
- Surely, we can use social media responsibly, promoting messages and raising awareness of disability rights. Otherwise, we can very simply make sure our content is accessible to all.
- Let’s seek opportunities to educate and inform, participating in actions that promote accessibility and equality.
Social Responsibility towards people with disabilities
Ask, Learn and Inform. Talk to people with disabilities, institutions and organizations about what the real challenges are and where you can help. Perhaps we need to be more and better aware of what is actually happening. And here comes a very important realization.
Have you wondered if the term disability ultimately characterizes a person because of the impairment they have? Does every space ultimately confer disability?
Disability, then, often does not come from the person himself, but from inadequate infrastructure and social indifference.
