Law on Prevention of Discrimination against Persons with Disabilities
The law prohibits disability discrimination and provides measures for equal participation. It concerns public services, accessibility, education, health care and work, with differing duties for public bodies, employers and service providers.
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Disability and protection against discrimination
This Serbian law prohibits unequal treatment because of disability and provides measures for equal participation. Its scope includes access to public services and places, education, healthcare and employment. Protection concerns an actual barrier or disadvantage, rather than the existence of a medical diagnosis alone. Disability does not automatically remove a person’s ability to make decisions about their own affairs or take part in a procedure.
For a refused service, record the provider, date, service requested, reason given and resulting disadvantage. For example, if a bank refuses service to someone unable to sign by hand, examine whether the statutory conditions permit a stamp containing identity details or an engraved signature. The 2016 amendment does not remove special requirements concerning the form or authentication of a legal transaction. Ask for an explanation of the specific obstacle; needing support does not itself justify requiring another person to act in every situation.
Accessibility also matters for electronic public services. Where a screen-reader user cannot open a form, complete a field or finish an application, identify the precise step and assistive technology. The Commissioner’s 2026 recommendation on eGovernment shows why access must cover the whole procedure. A high-contrast button alone does not prove that the service is accessible. Retain correspondence and the provider’s response to a request for removing the barrier.
A complaint to the Commissioner for Protection of Equality and civil judicial protection operate alongside the general anti-discrimination law. Their effects differ: a Commissioner’s recommendation is not a court award of compensation. The route depends on the event, evidence and outcome sought. This statute does not automatically establish disability-pension eligibility or entitlement to a particular job. Its current citation is Official Gazette 33/2006 and 13/2016, confirmed in institutional recommendations from 2025 and 2026.
Avangarda’s informative overview uses editorial, not official, translations. For an individual case, check the current legislation and seek qualified legal help where necessary.
What is this for?
Explains unequal treatment and available discrimination protection routes.
Who can use it?
Persons with disabilities, service providers, employers and public bodies.
When should it be used?
For inaccessible services or adverse treatment in services, education or work.