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LAOPD updates library collections in institutions of Dnipropetrovs'k region
During working visits to Dnipropetrovska oblast, the LAOPD team repeatedly drew attention to the problem faced by students and residents of various institutions: limited access to quality contemporary literature in Ukrainian. Many of the libraries we visited are still dominated by outdated Soviet literature. And while the Internet and television partially compensate for the lack of cultural leisure, reading remains one of the key forms of individual development - especially where other resources are limited. We have set ourselves the goal of updating the library collections of institutions in need. Each selection will include works of various genres by contemporary Ukrainian authors, classics of Ukrainian literature, children's and teenage books, as well as literature recommended by readers themselves. It is important for us that the books inspire, develop, broaden the worldview and meet the needs of today. Cooperation with the National Library of Ukraine In April, the LAOPD signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Yaroslav the Wise National Library of Ukraine . This partnership initiative opens up new opportunities for filling libraries with relevant publications. Within the framework of this cooperation, the library has already handed over the first batch of books, which will be delivered to institutions in the Dnipro region in the near future. And this is just the beginning. We believe that every child and young person has the right to quality cultural leisure, access to modern Ukrainian books and the opportunity to read what resonates with their lives, experiences and dreams.
16.04.2025
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Events
"Priorities and Challenges of Barrier-Free Policy: A New Step Towards Inclusive Ukraine
A large-scale analytical study was conducted as part of the development of the Action Plan for the Implementation of the National Strategy for the Accessibility of Ukraine for 2025-2026 and the update of the Strategy itself. It resulted in a detailed report entitled " Priorities and Challenges of the Barrier-Free Policy ". - Clickable This document is a key tool for understanding the current state of barrier-free access in Ukraine. It is based on a thorough analysis of the needs of people who face barriers in various areas of life on a daily basis: from physical infrastructure to access to information and services. The analytical material examines: what exactly creates barriers; what mechanisms exist to overcome them; how effective these mechanisms are; whether people have access to the opportunities guaranteed by law. The report is an important resource not only for the authorities in planning policies at the national and local levels. It can also be used by researchers, experts, human rights activists, civil society representatives and anyone working to create an accessible environment in Ukraine. In fact, it is a map of our country's barriers. And in order to effectively overcome these barriers, you first need to know exactly where they are located.
12.04.2025
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News
Humanitarian situation in Kharkiv region: key challenges and areas of response
Humanitarian situation in Kharkiv oblast: key challenges and areas of response Due to intense attacks on Kharkiv oblast and growing threats to civilians, the LAOPD team joined a multisectoral discussion with partners to assess needs and coordinate the humanitarian response. The Center for Rapid Response and Evacuation reports a significant increase in the number of people evacuating from the dangerous areas of Donetsk Oblast, as well as Kupiansk and Zolochiv communities in Kharkiv Oblast. Most of them are arriving in safer areas without the most basic necessities - in need of basic household items, hygiene products, food and financial support. The situation is further complicated by constant shelling, including the use of kamikaze drones (Shahed), which leads to further destruction of civilian infrastructure and civilian deaths. The work of humanitarian missions in the region takes place in conditions of increased danger. The meeting identified priority areas of humanitarian response: - Supporting the most vulnerable people who remain near the front line; - Providing urgent assistance to evacuees; - Eliminating the consequences of shelling of civilian infrastructure; - Preparing for a possible ceasefire - developing an appropriate response plan. The important issue of suspension of funding from the US government was also raised. This creates additional challenges for the continuation of humanitarian programs and support for the most vulnerable groups. LAOPD continues to work with partners, local authorities and international organizations to ensure consistent and effective assistance to people who need it most.
09.04.2025
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News
Participation of LAO in the dialogue platform in Kyiv
On 31 March 2025, Kyiv hosted a dialogue platform ‘Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Humanitarian Response in Ukraine: Progress, Challenges and Areas for Further Improvement’ , organised by Humanity & Inclusion with the support of WHO in Ukraine. The event brought together representatives of international humanitarian organisations, national clusters, civil society and organisations of people with disabilities. The “Luhansk Association of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities“ took part in the event to strengthen the intersectoral dialogue on the inclusiveness of the humanitarian response. The agenda of the event included: discussion of the impact of changes in international funding on the inclusion of people with disabilities in the 2025 response plans; examples of successful CSO participation in the provision of humanitarian assistance; Consideration of the challenges faced by organisations in implementing an inclusive approach; presentation of interagency cooperation and coordination practices; networking and exchange of experience. Participation in such events allows us not only to defend the rights of persons with disabilities, but also to formulate sustainable solutions at the level of national humanitarian policy. We are grateful to the organisers and partners for the meaningful dialogue and openness to cooperation.
31.03.2025
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Articles
‘Public administration without barriers" inclusiveness in the civil service
As part of the National Barrier-Free Strategy for 2025-2026 , Ukrainian government agencies are actively working to create an accessible environment. One of the key initiators of the changes was the National Agency of Ukraine on Civil Service (NACS) , which presented its flagship project, Public Administration without Barriers. To achieve its goals, the NAUCS has identified four key areas: 1. Barrier-free space Ensuring equal access to the professional and educational environment. 2. Barrier-free policy Integration of inclusion principles into government strategies and programmes. 3. Inclusive education for civil servants Implementation of special training programmes in the system of professional development. 4. Partnership and exchange of experience Cooperation between agencies and engagement of experts to share best practices. The project is already showing its first results: 15 special training programmes , including ‘Creating a barrier-free space based on equality and inclusion’. ‘Barrier-Free Policy Making’ (for top officials of category A). ‘Written Communication: Plain Language and Easy Reading (including an online course). ‘State without Barriers’ (educational series). 12,710 employees were trained in 2024. For the first time, barrier-free KPIs were introduced for state secretaries of ministries and heads of central executive bodies, which will allow assessing the effectiveness of reforms. «The Public Administration without Barriers» project is a step towards a modern, open society where the state truly works for everyone. The introduction of inclusive standards in the civil service not only improves the quality of services, but also shapes a new ethic of public administration Materials for the article were taken from the page of the Presidential Commissioner for Accessibility Tetiana Lomakina
30.03.2025
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Events
Coordination meetings of the Subnational Working Group in Kharkiv region
This week, representatives of the Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (LAOPD) took part in a regular meeting of the Subnational Working Group (SWG) for Kharkiv Oblast. LAOPD is a regular participant in these coordination meetings, which are aimed at discussing the current needs of the population, including internally displaced persons, as well as coordinating actions between organizations working in the region. The following key issues were discussed during the meeting - the current situation in the area of multi-sectoral cash assistance (MPCA); - Provision of emergency financial support to people evacuated from the war zones (Emergency MPCA TF); - updated requests from local governments; - information on UHF and HNRP programs; - mapping the potential of organizations working in the Kharkiv region; - agreeing on measures to avoid duplication of assistance among beneficiaries; - updating vulnerability criteria and requirements for registration in MPCA programs. Participation in such meetings allows LAOPD not only to share its experience of working with people with disabilities and IDPs, but also to engage in the development of joint solutions based on the real needs of communities. We are grateful to our partners and colleagues for effective cooperation and continue to work to ensure that humanitarian support is targeted, coordinated and as useful as possible for those who need it.
28.03.2025
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Events
A new opportunity for veterans: the employment platform “Towards”
Veterans of Ukraine will find it easier to find a job - Work.ua “Towards” platform has been launched to help them adapt to civilian life and help employers attract specialists with unique experience. What does the platform offer? Job database - more than 2,000 companies where military experience is an advantage Opportunity to post a resume - 5,500+ profiles are already available Resources for employers - checklists for companies that want to hire veterans “Veterans can become a driver of change after the war. Our task is to create decent working conditions for them,” said Yulia Kyrylova, Deputy Minister of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine. To learn more about the initiative and opportunities, please visit the platform All photos are taken from online resources
19.03.2025
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Events
Discussion on Housing Subsidies for IDPs: LAOPD’s Position on Disability Rights
March 19, 2025, Lviv – An expert discussion, “Rent Subsidy for IDPs in Ukraine: Early Steps, New Challenges, Myths,” brought together government officials, NGOs, and experts to explore housing support mechanisms for internally displaced persons (IDPs). The President of the Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (LAOPD) actively participated, highlighting key concerns about access to housing support programs for persons with disabilities. 🔹 Key points raised by LAOPD: ✔️ Housing crisis for IDPs with disabilities – Since 2014, thousands have been forced to leave occupied territories and find housing independently. The situation worsened in 2022. ✔️ Legislative restrictions – Current law prevents IDPs with disabilities from receiving housing assistance if they have over 100,000 UAH in their bank account, making it impossible to save for permanent housing. ✔️ Lack of response from the Ministry of Social Policy – LAOPD previously sent a request regarding disability rights (Letter No. 03_12/25, March 14, 2025), but a comprehensive response has yet to be received. ✔️ Call to action – LAOPD urged the Ministry of Social Policy to take direct control over this issue and ensure a more flexible and inclusive housing policy. LAOPD remains committed to advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities and calls for transparent dialogue between the government, civil society, and experts. 📢 Stay tuned for further updates!
19.03.2025
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News
Support That Warms: Winter Kits for the Most Vulnerable Families
Support That Warms: Winter Assistance for Those in Need Winter always brings new challenges, but it is especially harsh for those living in war-affected areas. The Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (LAOPD), in partnership with Solidar Suisse, is implementing the project “Guaranteed Support for the Population of Ukraine During the Winter Period,” funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). In frontline settlements, people face daily danger. Shelling, lack of heating, power outages, and water shortages have become a harsh reality. Many homes are damaged or destroyed, and evacuation is often not an option. Under such conditions, even the most basic necessities become critically important. To support those in the most vulnerable situations, LAOPD is distributing winter humanitarian kits to those who need them the most. These include families headed by persons with disabilities, large families with children, and elderly or single individuals struggling to survive. Aid is already being delivered to settlements in the Kharkiv region, with the next phase covering the Donetsk region. In total, 108 households will receive assistance as part of this project. All kits are distributed free of charge, and the distribution process is carefully documented to ensure transparency and proper allocation. We cannot stop the war, but we can make sure that those left near the frontlines have the support they need to get through the winter. Thanks to our partners, Solidar Suisse and SDC, we continue to provide critical aid to those who need it most. 💙 A huge thank you to everyone involved in this initiative! Together, we are stronger!
28.02.2025
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News
LAOPD Takes part in Strategic Meeting: Working on a New Large-Scale Project
From February 18 to 20, the team of the Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (LAOPD) took part in a strategic meeting in Kyiv to develop the concept of a new large-scale project within the FCDO SHARP initiative. The purpose of the meeting was to identify key areas of support for persons with disabilities in the context of war, create an effective system of cooperation between partners and develop a project implementation strategy. What we did: Identified the main areas of future activities - humanitarian assistance, social integration, and advocacy. Formed a common vision of the consortium - how to effectively combine efforts to maximize results. Developed a project concept - strategic priorities, implementation mechanisms and sources of funding. What's next? Finalize the details of the concept and agree on the next steps. Preparing to implement the initiative together with partners. We continue to advocate and raise resources to support people with disabilities. This project is an important step towards building an accessible and inclusive environment in Ukraine. We thank our partners for their work! Follow our updates - important decisions and further actions are ahead!
22.02.2025
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News
Resilience during wartime: LOOOI's participation in a public discussion in Lviv
The CS LAOOI participated in the public discussion "Lviv Region in Wartime: Challenges and Sources of Resilience," held on Thursday, October 17, 2024. During the event, key aspects of social resilience and cohesion in the context of a prolonged war were discussed. The main goal of the discussion was to develop a shared vision for addressing the new threats facing the region and its residents. The head of CS LAOOI, Mykola Nadulichnyi, took part in the discussion of critical aspects of supporting civic initiatives and ways to strengthen social unity during this challenging period. Stay updated on resilience and cohesion news on the Facebook page of the National Resilience and Cohesion Platform.
17.10.2024
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Articles
LOOOI and Solidar Suisse Ukraine in Kharkiv: support for affected families
Recently, a delegation from the Public Union "Luhansk Association of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities," together with our partners from Solidar Suisse Ukraine, visited Kharkiv. The delegation included Solidar Suisse Ukraine's Country Director, Verica Recevic, and security expert Artem Andrushkov. We visited locations where evacuated families are temporarily resettled, met with Deputy Mayor Svitlana Gorbunova-Ruban, and Alexander Malko, Director of the Department of Child Services of the Kharkiv City Council. The most memorable part of the visit was meeting people who have received assistance through our joint project. We visited Ms. Iryna, whose life, like that of her large family, has been profoundly affected by the war. Her home, which houses eight people, including her son who was born with a severe disability, was damaged twice by Russian shelling. Despite all the challenges, they did not leave Kharkiv—they had nowhere else to go, and their hearts remained tied to their home. Thanks to our project, the house has been restored, and now the family is preparing to face the winter in their rebuilt home. Ms. Iryna expressed her gratitude, saying: "We stayed here all this time, even though it was very scary. When our home was damaged again, I didn’t know what to do. But thanks to your help, we can live in our home, even if it’s still dangerous around us. We can now face winter in warmth—this is invaluable to us, especially for our son." Stories like Ms. Iryna's remind us why our work is so important. Through the project "Path to Integration: Humanitarian Assistance in Ukraine," implemented jointly with Solidar Suisse and Solidar Suisse Ukraine, we have managed to help restore over 200 homes in the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions. Each restored home is a small victory over destruction, giving people hope and confidence that even in the hardest times, they are not left alone to face their challenges.
16.10.2024
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