France Faces Persistent Barriers in Disability Rights Despite Legislative Advances

In France, people with disabilities continue to encounter significant challenges related to accessibility and support, even though laws protecting their rights have existed for decades. Émilie Péricat, representing APF France Handicap, spoke on Ici Creuse’s program "Bienvenue chez vous," emphasizing that society and political systems largely create these handicaps through inadequate implementation of existing legislation.

French laws on disability accessibility date back to 1975, yet many remain poorly enforced, leaving daily obstacles for individuals with disabilities. Péricat advocates moving beyond a medical model of disability to a social model, which recognizes that societal barriers—not just health conditions—are major contributors to difficulties faced by disabled people.

While acknowledging progress, such as the recent achievement where social security now covers 100% of wheelchair costs, Péricat expressed concern over proposed health budget cuts. These cuts risk limiting access to crucial services for people with long-term illnesses (Affections de Longue Durée), possibly forcing premature returns to work or reduced care. Furthermore, proposed changes to reimbursement for transportation and medications could adversely affect the finances of disabled individuals.

Péricat highlighted that despite legislative gains, many rights remain theoretical rather than practical, with implementation gaps hindering true accessibility. She called for vigilance to ensure protections are not eroded amid health policy changes.

This ongoing struggle reflects France’s broader difficulties in realistically addressing disability rights through policy and societal change, underscoring the necessity of continued advocacy and vigilant oversight to make legislative promises meaningful in the lives of disabled citizens.