WHO I MET WITH

The Disability and Human Rights Observatory

The Disability and Human Rights Observatory (Observatorio da Deficiencia e Direitos Humanos)(ODDH) connects science, citizenship, and innovation in disability and human rights. Created in 2013 and hosted by ISCPS-Universidade de Lisboa, the ODDH aims to follow-up disability policy development in Portugal and Portugese-speaking countries and to promote participatory processes of disability rights’ monitoring and implementation. 

The ODDH takes a multidimensional approach involving four areas: information, training, research, and policy advice. Its information approach focuses on the dissemination and knowledge translation of research undertaken by ISCSP on disability and human rights, as well as the organization and diffusion of relevant external resources. The ODDH hosts training through organized workshops, seminars, conferences, and other capacity building initiatives targeted at persons with disabilities and their organizations, professionals of the disability sector, researchers, and other stakeholders. The ODDH also conducts research in the field of disability and human rights, through partnerships between higher education institutions (both national and international) and disability organizations, as well as collaborations with international networks. In order to advise policy makers, the ODDH use field-tests and participatory tools. They contribute to the design, evaluation, and innovation of policies with an impact on the lives of persons with disabilities.   

Researchers, an advisory board, and a coordination committee work together to integrate all approaches together. The ODDH’s multidimensional approach has been proven effective for advancing Portugal’s progress surrounding the disabled community.

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Riding for the Disabled

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Riding for the Disabled in Cascais started operating in 1989 and is now a registered Portugese Charity Organization. It aims to provide horse riding activities in a safe, controlled environment to handicapped children and young adults in order to help develop their physical and intellectual potential to the highest possible degree through a stimulating, novel activity usually not available to them. 

About 40 volunteers participate in activities and are a viral element towards guaranteeing safety and full enjoyment. A riding instructor, physiotherapist, occupational therapists, and teachers make up the therapeutic team responsible for implementing the riding plan. 

For funding, the association relies on the support of its members, contributions from parents, and fundraisers and donations. Non-members can help by spondoring a horse, sponsoring a rider, or becoming a member.

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