Progress of social integration of mentally disabled persons in Japan

The social situation of the mentally disabled in Japan was characterized by living in closed sanatoriums with only few possibilities to Participate in normal social life until the 80(ths) of the last century. However, important improvements regarding the social integration have been achieved over the last years. Revisions of existing laws, private initiatives like working places for the disabled and other community associated facilities have been of special importance and have led to a better integration of the disabled in the normal social life. In the report examples of successful initiatives are described. The paid labour in the working facilities seems to be of high importance as they permit an economic and social autonomy and a higher self-respect.