The second day of our Justice that Works conference centred on the DIS-CONNECTED project, exploring pathways to prevent violence against women and children with disabilities in institutional settings and services. Discussions highlighted various research projects and initiatives that investigate this issue from multiple angles. Participants examined how monitoring efforts can bring violence to light and considered what young people need to achieve independent living. Solutions were also discussed, including efforts to advocate for inclusive legislation and create universal support services that are accessible to everyone.

Gender- and Disability-Based Violence in Institutions

Speakers explored the prevalence of violence against women and girls with disabilities in institutions and the systemic barriers they face in accessing justice. Christina Dimakou from the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) shared insights from FRA’s research on fundamental rights protections for persons with disabilities, while Dariana Gryaznova of Equality Now highlighted systemic and legal barriers women with disabilities face in institutional and community settings when reporting cases of sexual violence. Elizabeth Schroeder, Legal Capacity Project Advisor at Women Enabled International, discussed findings on legal capacity and reproductive rights in Spain, and Bruno Monteiro of Validity emphasised how guardianship laws hinder access to justice and the importance of gender- and age-appropriate support services. Their presentations are available here, here, here and here.

Monitoring to Address Violence in Institutions and Services

Project partners presented findings from monitoring visits conducted in Bulgaria, Lithuania, Slovakia, and Portugal. Ugnė Grigaitė from Mental Health Perspectives outlined challenges in applying international standards during monitoring visits, while Lucia Cangárová of FORUM for Human Rights and its self-advocates from INKLUB in Košice discussed their intersectional monitoring approach. Aneta Genova from KERA Foundation and Lucia Canha of FENACERCI shared practical insights into addressing violence through monitoring efforts.

Empowering Youth

Youth advocates from the European Network on Independent Living (ENIL) shared their experiences navigating disability- and gender-based discrimination. Nicolas Joncour and Catarina Vitorino, attending in person, and Melike Bal, participating online, highlighted the importance of personal assistance, gender equality, and the barriers to independent living. Their discussion emphasised the need for inclusive policies that prioritise the voices of young people with disabilities.

Inclusive Legislation

Speakers examined legislative strategies to reduce barriers for women and children with disabilities in justice systems. Maria Krasteva, a legal expert with the Bulgarian Network of Independent Experts, discussed the role of intermediaries in improving communication access in criminal proceedings. Sara Rocha, Vice-Chair for Women’s Rights at the European Council of Autistic People (EUCAP), presented a case study on successful legislative change in Malta, while Eliona Gjecaj from the University of Iceland highlighted the role of Rights Protection Officers in supporting individuals with disabilities. The presentations are available here, here and here.

Universal Support Services

This session explored the barriers women and children with disabilities face in accessing victim support services, particularly within institutions. Aleksandra Ivankovic from Victim Support Europe and Maja Štahan of Victim Support Croatia shared practical steps to make these services more accessible and responsive to all individuals, regardless of their circumstances. Their presentations are available here and here.

Moving Forward

As the DIS-CONNECTED project enters its final months, we are focused on completing the monitoring visits and the synthesis report and developing an online support services map, while we wrap up our national working groups and expert panel meetings. Stay tuned for updates!