Deinstitutionalization
At Fight For Right, we advocate for an immediate shift in Ukraine’s approach to social policy, the implementation of deinstitutionalization, and the provision of community-based services. We firmly believe that placing children, adults with disabilities, and older persons in residential care facilities, hereinafter referred to as institutions, is inconsistent with the requirements of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Institutionalizing persons with disabilities is a discriminatory practice. It also effectively deprives people of their legal capacity and liberty on the basis of disability or health status, in violation of Articles 12 and 14 of the Convention.
Fight For Right initiated the establishment of the Uzhhorod Group, developed a framework for implementing deinstitutionalization, and published a Theory of Change. We also contributed to drafting the Deinstitutionalization Strategy adopted by the Ukrainian government in late 2024. In addition, we conduct research on living conditions in institutions, gaps in community-based services, and the amount of public funding spent on maintaining institutions.
Deinstitutionalization in Ukraine
Everything you need to know about the journey of persons with disabilities—from confinement in closed institutions to independent living in their communities.
Independent Living Compass
We have also created the unique Independent Living Compass platform, which maps the journey from institutional care to independent living.
Personalized navigation: Helps users identify their needs and find trusted service providers throughout Ukraine.
Accessibility: The platform interface is adapted for persons with visual impairments and includes information in plain language.
A shared platform: Brings together government institutions, civil society organizations, and service providers around a common goal—independent living for persons with disabilities.
Publications and Research
Theory of Change – Deinstitutionalization Is Possible
Ukraine is taking its first steps toward the deinstitutionalization of people with disabilities
A Study of Ukraine’s Institutional System on the Eve of Deinstitutionalization
THE VALUE OF THE SYSTEM OVER THE VALUE OF THE INDIVIDUAL: The Economics of Boarding Schools in Ukraine
The Legal Status of Persons with Disabilities in Ukraine: A Systemic Failure in Ensuring the Rights of People with Disabilities.
The Issue of Institutionalization as Seen by Ordinary Ukrainians: A Sociological Survey by Fight For Right and KMIS.
In the Maze of “Care”: How Does the System Lead People with Disabilities to Residential Care Facilities in Ukraine?
The Strategy of Deinstitutionalization in Ukraine: Between European Integration Requirements and Preserving the Status Quo.
Analytical Note: From Incapacity to Supported Decision-Making: Best European Practices and Examples for Ukraine
