Siracusa conference discusses disability rights and life projects

A conference held in Siracusa, titled “From the rehabilitative project to the life project,” addressed the evolving landscape of disability rights in Italy. The event focused on the transition from purely therapeutic models to a “life project” approach, a shift introduced by the reform of Legislative Decree 62 of 2024.

Ottavio Palazzolo, president of the Italian Association for Sanitary Rehabilitation (Airs), stated that individuals with disabilities should be viewed as societal resources rather than mere recipients of services. He emphasized that the new legal framework recognizes the right of individuals to manage their own lives, including making decisions that extend beyond medical treatment to ensure participation in daily social activities and improved quality of life.

The meeting, attended by approximately 300 people, included contributions from various figures, such as Gioacchino Iraci, extraordinary commissioner of the Asp, and Archbishop of Siracusa, Mons. Francesco Lomanto. Lomanto highlighted that people with disabilities are protagonists of their own paths, entitled to live with recognized dignity.