Legislation sets rules for building standards that consider accessibility. However, sometimes the idea of inclusion doesn’t work because builders make mistakes on purpose or by accident. «The League of the Strong» has analyzed 1,500 laws in a year. Sometimes, there is a rush to rebuild and inclusivity may be ignored. However, according to Daria Sydorenko, the Executive Director of «The League of the Strong», accessibility should not be overshadowed by speed. She made this statement in a comment on the «Reforms of Public Administration» website.
«Ukraine needs specialists, architects, and builders who will use the principles of universal (inclusive) design in future reconstruction projects. People should also understand that ramps are not accessibility. If accessibility can only be achieved in a constructed building through the use of a ramp, then there is improper building design», explained Daria Sydorenko.
Legislation that works, along with everyone understanding and committing to the strategy of including everyone in reconstruction, is necessary. This is because accessibility is needed for everyone, not just individuals with disabilities.
According to Daria Sydorenko, we should have straightforward and well-written rules for constructing states. If we follow these rules, it will help solve various issues related to physical accessibility.
«Of course, the rebuilding should be fast enough, since some homes are damaged and people have nowhere to live. On the other hand, this building will last for 50-60-100 years or even longer, and many generations will live in it», emphasized Daria Sydorenko.
«The League of the Strong» collaborates with public organizations in various regions to support the monitoring and evaluation of accessibility. Additionally, they provide guidance to local authorities. Starting in October 2023, representatives from 30 communities in nine regions of Ukraine will work together with the The Centre of Inclusion Expertise to promote inclusive reconstruction.
«We are collaborating with the Ministry for Community Development, Territories, and Infrastructure of Ukraine to enhance the accessibility requirements in state building norms, specifically regarding shelters and healthcare facilities. Simultaneously, we acknowledge the importance of examining different requirements for structures to resolve any conflicts in construction rules», stated Daria Sydorenko.
«The League of the Strong», in partnership with the Kyiv administration, has created guidelines for specific requirements in inclusive planning for renovating multi-storey buildings. These guidelines are applicable to significant repairs, reconstruction, and new construction projects.
«The League of the Strong» also wants changes to the Building Codes regarding shelters. Currently, the requirements for inclusivity in major renovations are only a suggestion. The union’s lawyers are asking for these requirements to be mandatory, similar to new construction.