NVO bendradarbiavimo su savivaldos institucijomis patirtis atstovaujant neįgaliųjų interesams

Abstract

This article examines the experiences of NGOs that represent the interests of the disabled in cooperating with municipal institutions. Applying qualitative research methods (interviews and content analysis), the forms of NGO cooperation with local government institutions were revealed as the most important avenue of financial support for NGO projects. The results of this study showed that NGOs face challenges – first among which is power inequality, where local authorities have little experience of working with people with disabilities. Factors that strengthen the successful cooperation of NGOs with municipal institutions were also identified. Based on the results of the qualitative study, it was found that successful cooperation is related to the commitment of the NGOs themselves, contributing to the stronger and more active well-being of people with disabilities as well as mutual support and trust.