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The Ombudsperson visited the Organization “Handikos” in Prishtinë

20/01/2022

Prishtinë, 20 January 2022 – The Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj, jointly with his colleagues from the Department on Protection from Discrimination visited non-governmental organization “Handikos”, an organization for paraplegics and paralyzed children in Kosovo.

The purpose of the visit was to closely be acquainted with the services provided by this organization which has for several years worked on protection and promotion of rights of people with limited abilities.

On this occasion Mr. Qelaj emphasized that local institutions need to pay more attention to the needs of these organizations and provide more profound support in projects.

“2022 is going to be the year of people with disabilities. Undoubtedly that I shall be a part of this campaign, by being more present in the field. During these meetings, I will be able to identify problems and come up with recommendations for institutions with regard to improving the situation of people with disabilities “, pointed out Mr. Qelaj.

The director of the Organization, Mr. Afrim Maliqi welcomed Ombudsperson’s visit and explained that this community continues to be challenged with problems in the field of education as well as health, but also the ongoing challenge of not providing full infrastructural access for people with disabilities in our country.

“We do not have financial stability and due to this fact, children and adults’ lives become even more difficult. Services offered by us are provided since ‘90s. We work in two directions: provision of services and at the same time we advocate for their rights “, said Mr. Maliqi.

The Ombudsperson and Mr. Maliqi agreed to coordinate joint activities and identify topics they will address together this year.