KAKO RAZLIČITOST POSTAJE TEŠKOĆA
HOW DOES DIVERSITY BECOME A DIFFICULTY?

Summary/Abstract: Diversity is one of the fundamental characteristics of the human population and, in itself, does not constitute a problem or deficiency. However, an individual characteristic may become a source of difficulty when a person encounters an environment that is not adapted to their functional abilities, needs, and ways of functioning. This issue is particularly relevant in the context of persons with disabilities, especially persons with motor impairments, whose initial functional differences may, depending on environmental characteristics, develop into activity limitations, participation restrictions, and social inequalities. The aim of this paper is to analyse the mechanisms through which diversity may become a difficulty, with particular emphasis on physical and institutional barriers, stigma, stereotypes, social exclusion, digital inaccessibility, and media representation of persons with disabilities. The theoretical framework is primarily based on the social model of disability, while its limitations and the need to integrate biological, functional, and social dimensions of disability are also considered. In this context, the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health developed by the World Health Organization is particularly relevant because it emphasizes the interaction between health conditions, functioning, activities, participation, and environmental factors. The paper also examines human rights, non-discrimination, and accessibility, as well as the opportunities provided by digital technologies, media, and social networks. Particular attention is given to educational content and self-representation of persons with disabilities as potential mechanisms for reducing stereotypes and prejudice. The paper concludes that difficulty cannot be attributed exclusively to individual characteristics or exclusively to society, but should be understood as a product of their interaction. Consequently, the goal of inclusion should not be the elimination of diversity, but the creation of physical, social, and digital environments in which diversity does not constitute a barrier to human rights, dignity, autonomy, and full participation.

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