JESU LI OSOBE S INVALIDITETOM "INVALIDI"?
Are Persons with Disabilities "Invalids"? A question of conceptual nature but also of the need to provide equal opportunities

Summary/Abstract: The article consists of two parts. The first part contains a survey of the most frequent terms used in talking about part of the population characterised by a diminished or completely disabled functionality of the organ(ism)s, in other words of persons with disabilities. Inadequacy of the concepts used has been indicated, followed by the main features and definitions of invalidity as well as the representation of persons with disabilities in the general population. Also, certain actions undertaken by the Croatian government with the aim of providing equal opportunities and improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities are presented. The second part of the article is based on empirical research conducted among persons with disabilities, and discusses their socioeconomic status, the relationship of the state towards this population and possibilities of equal participation in society. It has been determined that the lives of civilians with physical disabilities in Zagreb and the surrounding area 219 are characterised by a very bad personal financial situation and dissatisfaction with the relationship of the state towards them. The possibility of equal participation in society, according to the perceptions of the examinees, does not yet really exist. This especially refers to the prospects of education and employment, although the examinees, especially the younger ones, clearly declare the latter as their aims. Thus, based on the results obtained, it could be concluded that there is still a great deal to be done in order to ensure the fulfilment of the basic living rights of members of the examined population and that it is essential to work hard for achieving the set goals.

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