[Digest] EMPL Study presentation: Independent living of persons with disabilities in the European Union

The workshop took place on 3 December 2025 and focused on the following topics:

• Independent living of persons with disabilities in the European Union, in relation to Art. 19 UNCRPD.
• The prevalence of institutional care and underfunded community-based services.
• The misuse of EU funding for the financing of institutions by Member States.
• Opportunities for deinstitutionalisation, community services and accountability in the new MFF 2028–2034.
• European Commission’s ongoing work on the post-2024 EU Disability Strategy.

The workshop was followed by questions from the Members and a stimulating debate. Participants discussed how to address these shortcomings, and which measures the Commission and Member States can implement to improve living conditions of people with disabilities.