Coalition for Independent Living responds to the decision of the Government of Georgia to increase pensions from January 2021.

The Coalition fully agrees with the need to increase pensions for both retirees under the age of 70 and older. However, the neglect of people with disabilities in the decision made by the Government of Georgia gives the impression that the government has once again overlooked the existence of numerous citizens of the country and their needs!

We would like to remind the Government of Georgia of its obligation under Article 11 (Right to Equality), Paragraph 4 of the Constitution of Georgia to persons with disabilities:

"The state creates special conditions for the realization of the rights and interests of persons with disabilities" and urges, taking into account the difficult socio-economic background created in the country, to make decisions that are for persons with disabilities will be equal, fair, effective and will not be determined solely by monetary benefits. On the contrary, it will significantly improve the quality of life of people with disabilities and maximally adapt to their individual needs.

We believe that the Government of Georgia should take responsibility for fulfilling its obligations under the Constitution of Georgia and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities ratified in 2013.

In particular, take effective steps to support the development of services and programs tailored to the biopsychosocial needs of the individual, which will increase the degree of independence of persons with disabilities and ensure full inclusion in society.

The Government of Georgia should introduce such important services and programs as rehabilitation of adults with disabilities, individual support, modern assistive technologies and others.

Ensure the active involvement of people with disabilities and their representative organizations in the planning, distribution and development of services.