European inventory of
societal values of culture

Leahy & Ferri - Barriers to cultural participation by people with disabilities in Europe

Leahy, A., & Ferri, D. (2023). Barriers to cultural participation by people with disabilities in Europe: a study across 28 countries. Disability & Society, 1-23.

This article presents the findings of a qualitative study conducted across 28 European countries that examined the barriers to cultural participation as perceived by representatives of organisations representing people with disabilities. The study covers barriers in various art forms and cultural heritage, including the participation of individuals with diverse types of disabilities as both audience members and creators of culture. The research reveals that people with disabilities commonly face interlinked barriers in five key areas: ineffective laws and policies, inadequate services and funding, negative attitudes, a lack of accessibility, and limited involvement of individuals with disabilities in cultural organizations. To address these challenges, the article advocates for more systematic enforcement of laws and policies, greater inclusion of disability-related knowledge within cultural organizations and policymaking, and the employment of people with disabilities at all levels within the cultural sectors.