Independent living isn't just a policy goal—it's about human dignity and equality. Join us in building a more inclusive Europe, based on human and civil rights, where disability rights are truly European rights.

On this #ILDay25, Volt stands with the disability rights movement in calling for a Europe where all citizens are equal before the law, can live independently, make their own choices, and participate fully in society.

We defend a Directive on deinstitutionalisation, an end to all financial support for the institutionalisation of disabled persons and the creation instead of a European fund to support independent living.

We advocate for abolishing substituted decision-making regimes like guardianship, and demand the EU Commission immediately cease its work promoting cross-border recognition of these outdated and harmful systems.

At @volteuropa.org, we believe disability rights must become truly European rights. We're committed to ensuring personal assistance is recognised across borders, allowing disabled Europeans genuine freedom of movement.

Meanwhile, the EU pushes for cross-border recognition of guardianship regimes - practices deemed discriminatory by the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This isn't just inconsistent; it's actively harmful.

As @floriansanden.bsky.social of
@enil-eu.bsky.social pointed out: "The EU's 'no competence' excuse falls apart when examined closely." The EU can and should take action against discriminatory practices like substituted decision-making under Article 19 TFEU.

Meanwhile, the EU continues to hide behind a fallacious interpretation of its competences on disability rights. But when it wants to promote practices contrary to the CRPD, like guardianship and institutionalisation, it suddenly finds legal basis. This double standard must end!

This year, #ILDay25 takes place in a worrying context of serious threats to disability rights, particularly with a disturbing wave of austerity measures targeting independent living support across Europe.