2023-09-06 17:11:27
It already existed in Belgium, but also in a handful of other states (such as Cyprus, Italy or Romania, among others). The European Commission would now like to generalize it throughout the European Union (EU): the European Disability Card is the subject of a proposal for a directive, put on the table this Wednesday, September 6 by the Commission European.
In this 47-page legislative document, the European executive wishes to make this new card proof of the status of disabled person, so that it is recognized in all EU countries. The Commission also proposes to create a European parking card for people with disabilities, also recognized throughout the Old Continent.
Priority access and reduced rate
It thus wants to ensure that the holders of these cards will be able to benefit from equal access to preferential treatment throughout the EU. In public transport, priority access or reduced fares should be granted. In museums, amusement parks and other cultural or leisure centres, by presenting this new card, its holder could claim free or reduced admission, or enjoy personalized assistance.
Commission Vice-President Vera Jourova insisted that “the rights of people with disabilities must not stop at national borders”. During a press conference in Brussels, she wanted these two new cards to break down certain barriers. “I want to believe that this will allow people with disabilities to strengthen their independence and help them exercise their rights across the EU”she added.
Two and a half years to introduce the cards
The European disability card may exist physically, but also in digital format. The promise to introduce this new tool at European level dates back to March 2021, when the European Commission adopted its “disability rights strategy 2021-2030”.
The proposed directive will now have to be discussed by member states in the Council of the EU and by MEPs in the European Parliament. Once the text has been adopted, the Commission foresees a period of two and a half years during which the 27 EU governments will be obliged to introduce these two cards. But all these modalities could be reviewed by the co-legislators.
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