Since the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, self-representation has become an inherent component of the provincial laws on disability and equal treatment. Based on examples, this project investigates the extent to which these regulations are implemented in the practical field of disability work (including living arrangements and daily structure). The study will assess the actual possibilities and resources available for people's participation. It also examines whether the top-down approach used so far is effective in establishing participatory structures and whether parallel bottom-up initiatives (by affected individuals) are at least also necessary.

Drawing on individual research projects (theses), the project will analyze practices across various organizations. On a theoretical level, it will contribute to the foundations of how democratic structures in disability work can be implemented, taking into account the broader economic and social context which does not always support democratic principles. In addition, the study hopes to include international best-practice examples.

The project benefits from the experience of its three project leads, who have direct access to the institutions where they work – thereby providing insights into the research field.