Heads of government campaign for better inclusion of people with disabilities

The heads of government of the federal states want to better integrate people with disabilities into society. "We know that a society can only be fair if it is inclusive," said Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) before the start of the Minister Presidents' Conference in Leipzig. There is actually agreement on this goal throughout Germany.

Looking at the reality reveals gaps

"But looking at the reality shows that there are many areas where it is worth doing more work," said Kretschmer. Shortly before the start of the annual conference, the heads of government had already met with the federal and state disability commissioners in Leipzig. In particular, they discussed implementation in the areas of education and employment as well as housing, health and skilled workers.

Kretschmer pointed out that the costs of implementing the Federal Participation Act, which was passed a few years ago, have risen in recent years. "If we want this work to continue with the same commitment and passion as it has just begun, then we also need a financial foundation." Talks with the federal government are planned in this context.

Inclusion as a basic democratic principle

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's head of government Manuela Schwesig (SPD) underlined this and emphasized: "It is important that these people have the same rights to participate in all areas of life as everyone else." She wanted to prevent people with disabilities from being marginalized - they are an integral part of society. In view of the shortage of skilled workers, it is particularly important to offer people with disabilities opportunities.

The Federal Government Commissioner for People with Disabilities, Jürgen Dusel, emphasized that the inclusion of people with disabilities is not a fad, but a fundamental principle of democracy. For him, it is important to convey that the diversity of people enriches society.

According to the figures, around 13 million people with disabilities live in Germany. Of these, around eight million are severely disabled, which makes up around ten percent of the population. Just under one million people with disabilities receive support through integration assistance. Only around three percent of severe disabilities are congenital. Most disabilities arise in the course of life as a result of accidents or illness.