The Government of the Russian Federation has prepared a draft law “On Amending Article 15 of the Law“ On Education ”and Articles 14 and 19 of the Federal Law“ On Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities in the Russian Federation ”, according to which a number of institutions will be required to provide sign language interpreters when rendering services to people with hearing disabilities.
The news about social support for the deaf-mute was distributed by ITAR-TASS, citing the words of the head of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection Maxim Topilin.
The Cabinet of Ministers has already considered amendments to the legislation in the field of social protection of persons with disabilities regarding the use of Russian sign language. As the minister explained to the news agency, this document will bring Russian legislation in line with the requirements of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. In May, Russia ratified the Convention and is obliged to contribute to the creation of an anti-discrimination environment for people with disabilities.
Thus, stage by stage state and non-state institutions of various kinds will be adapted for people with disabilities and those who communicate only with the help of sign language. They should “receive these services in an accessible form for themselves, ” Topilin said. He explained that in the first place, all state and commercial healthcare institutions, social protection agencies, as well as institutions involved in the provision of material services are meant.
The head of the State Duma Committee on Labor and Social Policy Andrei Isaev cited another example to Finam FM publishing house: “So, if a person who has hearing problems, is dumb or blind from birth, is elected as a deputy of any authority, then he can be paid from the budget to distinguish an interpreter. This will ensure the full participation of the elected politician in the discussion and decision-making."
Moreover, one more was added to the responsibilities of authorities at all levels: creating the most comfortable conditions for people with hearing disabilities to receive an education, which would require additional training for teachers and translators, RIA Novosti reports. Thus, the list of institutions with compulsory sign language translation will be replenished with educational institutions.
