Terms of Reference

Social Commission

1. The Definition of Social Rehabilitation
   
   "Social rehabilitation is a process the aim of which is to attain functioning ability. This ability means the capacity of a person to function in various social situations towards the satisfaction of his or her needs and the right to achieve maximum richness in his or her participation in society."
   
   
2. The Terms of Reference of the Social Commission
   
   It was agreed that these should be the consideration of social rehabilitation and equalization of opportunities in its social aspects.
   
   Equalization of opportunities means "the process through which the general system of society, such as the physical and cultural environment, housing and transportation, social and health services, educational and work opportunities, cultural and social life, including sports and recreational facilities, are made accessible to all."

Two important principles are:

1. Society should be designed to enable full participation by all citizens: it should be seen as a defect of the society if people with disabilities are unable to participate in any activity they wish.
   
   
2. People with disabilities should be enabled to determine the goals of their rehabilitation and to exercise the same choice as others about their human relationships, the community and the environment in which they wish to live.