Notes on deinstitutionalisation in Czechia
The Czech umbrella organisation Unity for Deinstitutionalisation (JDI), bringing together 74 members, has released an overview of the current state of deinstitutionalisation in Czechia’s social services.
The document starts by outlining the current situation. In Czechia, nearly 1.3 million people live with disabilities, and many still rely on outdated institutional care rooted in the country’s 40-year communist regime. Despite efforts over the years, only a small number of institutions have been fully transformed. Responsibility now lies with regional governments, with only a few actively supporting deinstitutionalisation.
JDI’s mission is to ensure that people with disabilities can live independently, supported by community-based services rather than being placed in large institutions. JDI monitors policies, advocates for legislative change, and supports grassroots efforts across Czechia.
Recent successes include embedding community-based care in national law and phasing out “baby homes” for children under 3. However, big challenges remain. Public funds still favour large residential services, while grassroots providers and NGOs struggle to secure stable financing.
Surveys show that families overwhelmingly prefer community-based options, yet gaps in availability, political support, and long-term strategy remain. JDI continues to push for systemic change through better data collection, stronger national leadership, and meaningful involvement of people with disability in shaping the future of services.