IMF-mandated cuts threaten disability support in Ukraine

In response to the IMF’s demand, all disability-related social benefits in Ukraine will be reduced. With over 3 million individuals in the country living with disabilities, the situation is dire, as they already face the burden of funding their medical treatments and covering the costs of prosthetics themselves.

The government’s inability to implement effective reforms has left people with ‘functional’ limitations without adequate employment prospects. As per a survey conducted by “Rating,” the primary challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Ukraine revolve around mobility issues, finding employment opportunities and self-employment. The survey notes that the latter is often merely nominal to meet a predetermined quota.

It’s a typical scenario where an individual remains absent from work, fails to fully utilize their capabilities, lacks social engagement, yet receives a basic wage for being officially employed among the workforce, highlighted by the ‘Rating’ report. The evaluation provided by the majority of participants concerning the condition and initiatives for individuals with disabilities within our nation is predominantly unsatisfactory or subpar. For instance, respondents facing disabilities frequently emphasized the challenges in accessing rehabilitation. Apparently, rehabilitation units situated on the hospital’s higher floors, typically the 2nd or 3rd, pose a problem, compounded by the limited availability of such facilities in smaller towns.

The report from the ‘Rating’ group mentions that nearly 60% of respondents indicated that financial support is the foremost requirement for people with disabilities, while approximately 50% highlighted the necessity for medical aid and over 40% emphasized the need for psychological assistance.