Claiming the Space: Why Self-Advocacy is a Fight for Democracy in Georgia

Written by Ana Sikhashvili Political Science Graduate Fellow at the Centre for Inclusive Policy (CIP) EDYN Member

December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reminds us that advocacy isn’t abstract, it is the daily, persistent work of demanding to exist, be visible, and claim fundamental rights. For me, as a blind activist from Georgia, this fight has been defined by two things: accepting my life fully and refusing to be silent.

“Self-advocacy is not only about fighting for yourself, it is a fight for everyone who comes after you.”

Acceptance and Empowerment

I have been blind since I was five. That is simply a fact of my life—one I never questioned with “Why me?” Instead, my family focused on education, growth, and independence. They never saw me as someone to shelter—they saw me as someone to empower. That belief that life is about contribution, not pity, is the foundation of my activism today.

The Desire to Lead, Not Just Learn

It wasn’t formal education alone that shaped my path, but my desire to lead. At 15, this drive took me to the FLEX Future Leaders Exchange Program in the United States. That experience taught me independence and leadership are possible even in a world full of barriers. Returning to Georgia, I realized I could also navigate my country independently. It wasn’t always safe, and everyone told me I shouldn’t, but I did it anyway. Every step became a small act of self-advocacy, showing that people with disabilities can live fully and independently.

Raising Awareness Through Visibility

A key part of my activism is public awareness. I use Facebook, TikTok, and other platforms to share the challenges we face. TikTok has been especially powerful. Strangers often tell me:

“I saw your TikTok about accessibility, and now I notice where we have these components and where we don’t.”

By reaching a wide audience, I help build solidarity and awareness. Informed citizens may vote with disability issues in mind, creating long-term change beyond individual campaigns. Every conversation, video, or post becomes a way to educate people on what inclusion truly looks like. This is crucial in a country like Georgia, where awareness is often limited and the voices of persons with disabilities are marginalized.

Advocacy and Everyday Challenges

Graduating with a BA in Political Science didn’t just teach me theory, it required constant advocacy for my own rights. From earning a state stipend through merit, not pity, to navigating streets safely, advocacy is part of my daily life.

My everyday life is challenging because I’m always conscious of how I present myself. I want to break stereotypes: people with disabilities are not helpless or incapable. We are like everyone else: some walk well, some don’t; some dress well, some don’t, but we deserve respect and visibility.

Walking independently is part of this. Every step I take publicly shows that we are active members of society, deserving of the same opportunities as anyone else.

The Fight for Rights is a Fight for Democracy

In Georgia, disability rights are inseparable from democracy. Under authoritarian pressures, our community feels the impact first. Often, our issues are addressed only through donor funding. If donors stop, who will advocate for us? The system favors vulnerability over competence.

It’s difficult to witness how the government sometimes manipulates our community. Some individuals who oppose the pro-Russian government are pressured, and others are encouraged to say that activists are “lying” or “radicals.” This tactic undermines advocacy and discourages skilled people from staying in the country or pursuing their dreams. Despite these challenges, I continue to join protests, public discussions, and advocacy campaigns to ensure our voices are heard. Persistence is essential.

Demanding Universal Design, Not Personal Favors

Working on accessible streets and public spaces in Tbilisi has shown me that officials sometimes resist systemic change. Requests for accessibility are occasionally met with:

“We’ll install accessible streetlights wherever Ana walks.”

This response is insulting, not only to me but to the entire community. Accessibility is a right, not a reward for being vocal. Public advocacy, social media engagement, and direct communication with authorities are all strategies to ensure universal design becomes standard, not temporary favors.

Progress is slow, but every small victory strengthens our collective voice and demonstrates the importance of policy grounded in universal design principles.

A Call for Solidarity and Leadership

Despite challenges, I remain hopeful. Volunteering abroad, sharing my experiences online, and participating in public actions reinforce the importance of visibility and solidarity. Every conversation, every video, every public appearance is a step toward a society where persons with disabilities are not only seen but heard, respected, and included.

A Message to Young Women with Disabilities

To young women with disabilities: your voice matters, your ideas matter, and your leadership is needed. Don’t wait for permission or pity. Pursue your goals relentlessly. Demand your space in public life. Remember: self-advocacy is not only about fighting for yourself, it is a fight for everyone who comes after you.

You are capable of shaping your country, influencing policies, and inspiring others. Claim your space, be visible, and lead boldly. The world needs your courage.

Claiming space in Georgia is not easy, but it is essential. By embracing visibility, demanding political participation, and insisting on systemic accessibility, we ensure a path toward true democracy and inclusion for all.