EU action had little impact on the lives of people with disabilities

EU action had little impact on the lives of people with disabilities

by Nine O’Clock

EU action had little impact on the lives of people with disabilities

• A quarter of EU adults declare a disability, a number set to rise
• People with disabilities remain more likely to be jobless and poor
• On social policies, member states are in the driving seat, with the EU in a supporting role

The EU’s action to improve the situation of people with disabilities in the member states has made little difference in real life, according to a new report by the European Court of Auditors. The key equality indicators have barely improved in recent years, as people with disabilities still struggle to get a job and remain more susceptible to poverty. In addition, the criteria for disability status differ between countries, which potentially undermines mutual recognition and prevents the European Commission from having a sound overview of the situation. The EU’s executive has issued EU-wide disability strategies and proposed new initiatives, but relevant legislation has stalled.

Around a quarter of EU citizens over 16 (c. 87 million people), particularly the elderly, have a self-declared disability such as a physical or mental impairment. As the EU population is ageing, their share and number are likely to increase. In 2021, according to Eurostat, only 51 % of people with disabilities had jobs, compared to 75 % of those without disabilities, meaning that the disability employment gap remained almost the same as in 2014 when records began. People with disabilities were also at greater risk of poverty – the risk being higher for women than for men – and the COVID-19 pandemic made their situation even worse.

“The Commission is committed to helping people with disabilities play an equal part in everyday life, but EU actions have had little practical impact,” said Stef Blok, the ECA member in charge of the audit. “People with disabilities in the EU still face an uphill struggle getting a job and fighting poverty, as well as barriers to their freedom of movement.”

Member states have primary responsibility for social inclusion policies but provide very different support and benefits for people with disabilities, and have different ways of deciding who is eligible. Furthermore, they do not recognise the disability status granted by other member states, something that would foster barrier-free movement across the bloc. As a result, people with disabilities visiting another EU country, or moving for work or study, risk unequal treatment compared to nationals in a similar situation. As well as facing more red tape, they may not enjoy equal access to services such as reduced fees for museums or transport.

The EU’s role is to provide support and coordination. In its 2021-2030 strategy, the Commission addressed most earlier shortcomings and proposed a number of flagship inclusion initiatives such as the European Disability Card and the Disability Employment Package – both of which are steps in the right direction, say the auditors. However, the strategy leaves many key issues unresolved. Progress in this area is hampered by the stalling of the EU’s Equal Treatment Directive and the member states’ slow pace in incorporating the European Accessibility Act into national law. The link with EU funding also remains weak, and the Commission does not track how much EU money actually goes into supporting people with disabilities, something which could illustrate how EU funding has improved their situation.

The auditors looked at whether EU institutions lead by example when it comes to employing people with disabilities. However, due to a lack of data, they were not able to assess whether these institutions have achieved their ambitions by including people with disabilities in their workforce. The auditors recommend that the EU institutions gather the necessary data and report on progress.

Background

The concept of people with disabilities is enshrined in a United Nations convention, and includes long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments. The EU policy framework concerning people with disabilities has evolved over the last 15 years. However, EU disability statistics remain largely based on self-declaration. The 2021 Eurostat survey shows major differences between member states on self-perceived limitations in people’s usual activities due to a health issue, ranging from almost 17 % in Malta to over 37 % in Latvia. National government spending on social protection benefits for disability averages just over 2 % of GDP, from less than 1 % in Malta to 5 % in Denmark. EU funding can complement national funds to varying degrees.

ECA special report No 20/2023 “Supporting people with disabilities – Practical impact of EU action is limited” is available on the ECA website in 24 EU languages. The ECA’s website includes an easy-to-read version to ensure optimal accessibility for the general public, including people with disabilities.

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