4.6.4 Results
In the pilot province Thanh Hoa, the capacity of people with disabilities to participate in the political process was strengthened. A starting point was to reflect on self-images and to analyse existing policies regarding to different models of disability. In the course of the project activities, the importance of self-help groups, DPOs and clubs as a vital part of the civil society was acknowledged not only by people with disabilities, but also by government authorities. The workshop on models of disability in particular provoked a change in self-perception (from charity to rights-based thinking): as one workshop participant stated, “the workshop has totally changed my way of thinking“. Furthermore, many participants mentioned that their self-confidence had been strengthened and that they feel more competent to talk in front of group of people, give presentations, etc. The participating organisations (self-help groups, DPOs, clubs) planned and carried out lobbying activities and an awareness campaign. For example, a TV advert was produced and shown on local television featuring club members affirming their rights. These organisations have already used their capacity to disseminate knowledge about the rights-based approach and the NAP to people with disabilities in other districts and provinces. Furthermore, the SHGs plan to increase their legitimacy by founding a DPO.
The projects not only managed to bring people with disabilities together, but also functioned as a bridge between self-help groups and representatives from the provincial government. The latter showed particular interest in the different models of disability and widened their perspective from a charity-orientated to a social and rights-based understanding of disability. Nevertheless, DOLISA has not yet invited the SHGs to contribute to the provincial NAP.
