Activists and staff of the Information Center for Persons with Disabilities “Lotos” Tuzla visited the Reception Center “Duje” on November 7, 2024, an institution that accommodates 480 users. This study visit provided us with a better insight into the work of the center and the daily challenges that employees and users face. We spoke with users and staff, exchanged experiences and analyzed ways to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities in the community, including life in an institution. This visit was an opportunity to improve the understanding and realization of the rights, opportunities and needs of the center’s users, as well as activists of the IC “Lotos”.

Representatives of “Lotos” presented their work and activities that are implemented with the aim of achieving equal conditions and a dignified life for persons with disabilities through strengthening capacities for a more independent life. Representatives of the “Duje” center were also presented with a set of publications that focus on the activities and work of Lotos on changes and independence in the lives of young people with disabilities and their parents. It was concluded that through joint cooperation we can contribute to overcoming the challenges and obstacles that persons with disabilities face, and that it is necessary to work even harder to indicate that a multisectoral approach to disability issues is necessary from the system.

We would like to thank the representatives of the "Duje" center and expect them to be our guests in the future, and together we will continue to be dedicated to creating a more inclusive society through work to improve the lives, position and rights of persons with disabilities.

The study visit was implemented within the program activities of IC "Lotos", with the support of MyRight Sweden, as well as the Government of Tuzla Canton.