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Independent living and adequate standard of living (Articles 19, 20

and 28)

25. Independent living is misunderstood by many Thais to mean living by

oneself. However, its real meaning is that persons with disabilities can

choose the way of life they want to live. This is closely linked to dignity

and the freedom to make one’s own decision. Article 19 of the Convention

states that persons with disabilities must have the opportunity to choose

their place of residence, including in the community, and the State should

provide necessary support services to make their homes or places of

residence suitable for their living in the community. Section 20 of the 2007

Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities Act recognizes the right of

persons with disabilities to have access to and benefit from state welfare

program and assistance in various ways including the adjustment of

residential environment. At present, persons with disabilities can apply for

such assistance from the DEP.

26. In 2014, the government allocated an annual budget of 9.24 million baht

for residential adjustments which benefited 462 persons with disabilities. The

DEP drew an additional funding of 14.14 million baht from the Disabilities

Fund for 700 persons with disabilities. Altogether, a total of 23.83 million baht

was granted to 1,162 persons as assistance for residential adjustments.

However, the maximum amount granted to each request for assistance is

limited to 20,000 baht, which is usually less than the actual cost and

persons with disabilities have to seek additional funds from other sources.