(Disability Awareness Newspaper) = Choi Bong-hyuk Columnist (AI, ESG, DX Convergence Expert, Workplace Disability Awareness Training Expert)

1. Importance of guaranteeing the rights of people with disabilities

The Constitution of the Republic of Korea guarantees the basic rights of people with disabilities equally to those without disabilities, based on Article 10's dignity and value as a human being and Article 11's right to equality. However, the reality is far from this. Disability is a restriction created by social and material foundations, which leads to violations of the basic rights of people with disabilities.

2. Disability Rights Charter: Declaration for an Equal Society

The Disability Rights Charter, proclaimed in 1998, is a declaration calling for the elimination of discrimination against people with disabilities and equal treatment. The charter emphasizes participation and the guarantee of rights in all areas of life for people with disabilities, including political, economic, social, educational, and cultural life. However, according to the 2017 Disability Status Survey, people with disabilities are still experiencing discrimination in various fields, such as school life, employment, and medical institution use.

3. Disability Awareness Education: Efforts to Change Social Perception

Social perception change is essential to guarantee the rights of people with disabilities. To this end, disability awareness education has been introduced.

The "Act on the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities" aims to raise awareness of disabilities in all areas, including the national and local governments, local governments, educational institutions, and public institutions.

The "Act on Vocational Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities" aims to raise awareness of employers and employees in order to promote the employment of people with disabilities and stabilize their jobs.

4. Disability Awareness Education that Requires Continuous Effort and Improvement

As of May 29, 2019, all employers and employees are required to take at least one hour of workplace disability awareness education per year. However, the effectiveness of the education is still insufficient, and more effort is needed to raise awareness throughout society.

5. Suggestions for Improving Disability Awareness

Improving education content and methods:

It is necessary to enhance the understanding of participants through experiential learning, discussions, and so on, beyond simply conveying knowledge.

Differentiated education should be provided, reflecting the characteristics and diversity of each disability type.

Expanding the scope of education:

Education should be provided to a variety of target groups, including students, youth, general citizens, public and private company employees, and medical professionals.

Continuous evaluation and improvement:

The effectiveness of education should be continuously evaluated, and shortcomings should be improved.

Direct participation of people with disabilities should be reflected in the improvement of education programs.

6. Creating a Fair and Inclusive Society Together

Disability awareness is essential not only for guaranteeing the rights of people with disabilities but also for the development of our society. All members of society should actively participate in raising awareness of people with disabilities and creating a fair and inclusive society.

7. Additional Information

Laws and guidelines related to disability awareness education:

Article 41 and Article 42 of the Act on the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities

Article 33 of the Act on Vocational Rehabilitation of Persons with Disabilities

Disability Awareness Education Guidelines (Ministry of Health and Welfare)

Disability Awareness Education Institutions and Programs:

Korea Disability Welfare Institute

Disability Awareness Education Center (Ministry of Health and Welfare)

Disability-related institutions of each local government