At the end of the previous year, the regular session of the Teslić Municipal Assembly was held, where the Draft Action Plan for improving the position of persons with disabilities in the Teslić municipality for the period 2025–2027 was adopted. This strategic document, aimed at improving the living conditions for persons with disabilities, is the result of the joint efforts of local associations and municipal authorities.

Joint efforts for a better tomorrow

The initiative for creating the Local Action Plan was submitted by the Teslić Community development, advancement, and support association, the Teslić Dystrophy Association, the Teslić Paraplegic Association, the Teslić Association of the Blind and Visually Impaired, and the "Diabetes" Diabetic Association of Teslić. These associations identified key issues that persons with disabilities face daily, such as architectural barriers, lack of personal assistance services, limited access to education and employment, and a general lack of societal sensitivity to their needs.

"People with disabilities are often marginalized and face various obstacles that prevent them from being fully socially, economically, and politically active. The adoption of this plan is an important step toward creating a more equitable society", said Željko Simeunić, president of the Municipal Organization of the Blind and Visually Impaired of Teslić, emphasizing the importance of inclusive policies and practices.

A New era of inclusion

The Draft Action Plan for Improving the Position of persons with disabilities in the Teslić Municipality for the 2025–2027 period was created in accordance with international and domestic laws, particularly the UN Convention on the Rights of persons with disabilities, and follows the "Agenda 22" methodology, which allows for the creation of local plans based on the real needs of the community.

"The creation of the Local Action Plan will not only define problems but will also offer specific measures and activities for their resolution. This includes improving accessibility, supporting the education and employment of persons with disabilities, and developing support services such as personal assistance", explained Goran Jokić, president of the Teslić Paraplegic Association.

Positive steps and future plans

It is worth noting that the Teslić Municipal Assembly adopted the first Local Action Plan for the period 2018–2020 back in 2017, which is no longer valid. The adoption of the new plan represents a renewed commitment by the local community to improving the quality of life for the approximately 3,000–4,000 persons with disabilities living in the Teslić municipality, according to estimates.

In addition to adopting the plan, the associations have announced that they will continue their activities to monitor its implementation, as well as further cooperation with relevant institutions and the local community to achieve the best possible results.

The adoption of this action plan marks an important step toward a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the community and realize their full potential. The associations leading this initiative encourage all residents of Teslić to support these efforts and collectively build a community that meets the needs of all its members.