Pristina, 3 December 2025 – On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the Ombudsperson reaffirms the commitment to protecting and promoting their rights, as well as overseeing the implementation of state obligations in this area. This day reminds us of the importance of inclusion, respect for diversity and human dignity for each individual.

Public institutions have a legal obligation to take measures that ensure equal treatment and the elimination of discrimination. However, many of these persons continue to face serious obstacles in accessing health services, education, employment and participation in public life.

The Ombudsperson, through continuous recommendations and interventions, has contributed to important changes, including the revision of medical re-evaluation procedures for paraplegic and tetraplegic persons, which were previously contrary to the law. In 2025, reductions in electricity tariffs for paraplegic, tetraplegic and blind persons have also been recommended, in accordance with the relevant laws. The Ombudsman has addressed cases related to the right to vote for persons who have been partially deprived of their capacity to act by court decisions and whether these decisions have an impact on the right to vote, as well as issues related to access to quality education for deaf persons.

Despite these efforts, the implementation of the Ombudsperson’s recommendations remains low. Many municipalities still do not provide adequate physical access to public facilities, violating a fundamental right. In addition, administrative instructions for reducing electricity tariffs have not yet been adopted.

Although on 3 August 2023 the Constitutional Court confirmed the constitutional amendment that foresees the inclusion of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, its adoption by the Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo has not yet taken place. This step is necessary to guarantee fundamental rights and freedoms, as well as to strengthen respect and dignity for persons with disabilities.

The Ombudsperson will continue to advocate steadfastly for these rights to be respected and implemented in practice, considering equality and inclusion as essential values ​​of a democratic and just society.