UN report highlights alarming decline in rights for individuals with disabilities in Denmark

The increasing use of coercion in psychiatry, disparities in support from municipality to municipality, and significantly lower life expectancy are just a few of the concerns raised by the UN regarding Denmark’s treatment of individuals with disabilities. A 17-page report from the UN’s Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities indicates a troubling decline in the rights of individuals with disabilities. Thorkild Olesen, the chairman of the Danish Disability Organizations, describes the situation as “completely unacceptable” and highlights the ongoing struggles and frustrations faced by people with disabilities.

One of the report’s key criticisms focuses on the rising instances of restraint in psychiatric care, which have increased by approximately 25% over the past decade. The report references the Danish Health Authority’s monitoring of coercion in psychiatry, showing a notable increase in physical restraints and forced medication over the last year.

Another significant concern raised is the inequality in resource allocation for individuals with disabilities across different municipalities. This is compounded by growing investments in residential facilities, which the report argues infringes on the right to live independently. The report also discusses prevalent stereotypes and prejudices against individuals with disabilities, which hinder their inclusion in the workforce and educational institutions.

Olesen points to discrimination faced in healthcare, education, and employment sectors, noting that people with developmental disabilities or mental illnesses live 15 to 20 years shorter than the average Danish citizen. The report echoes concerns from a similar evaluation conducted in 2014, reiterating the lack of progress made since then. In response, Rosa Lund, a disability spokesperson, emphasizes the urgent need for governmental accountability to address these ongoing issues.