Human Rights Commission Launches Campaign to Raise Awareness of Hearing Assistance Dogs
Human Rights Commission Releases Materials to Improve Understanding of Hearing Assistance Dogs, Hoping to Reduce Misconceptions and Discrimination
The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) announced that it has created and distributed a series of informational card news graphics to local governments nationwide to improve social awareness of hearing assistance dogs, vital companions for individuals with hearing impairments. This initiative aims to prevent discriminatory incidents stemming from misunderstandings and prejudices against hearing assistance dogs and to foster an environment where both people with disabilities and their assistance dogs are respected as members of society.
Assistance dogs encompass various types, including guide dogs for the visually impaired, hearing assistance dogs, mobility assistance dogs for individuals with physical disabilities, and therapy dogs. They play a crucial role in supporting the daily lives and social activities of people with disabilities. Hearing assistance dogs are indispensable for those who have difficulty hearing. However, these dogs are often mistaken for ordinary pets, leading to instances of denial of access to public transportation or public spaces. Addressing this issue through improved public awareness is urgently needed.
To address these challenges, the NHRCK has produced and is disseminating card news graphics that highlight the role and importance of hearing assistance dogs and provide clear explanations of relevant regulations. The graphics emphasize that hearing assistance dogs perform the critical function of alerting their handlers to dangers or important sounds in their environment through gestures and signals. They also underscore that, according to the Act on Welfare of Persons with Disabilities, it is illegal to deny entry to public transportation, public spaces, lodging facilities, food service establishments, and other locations to individuals with disabilities accompanied by assistance dogs wearing the designated assistance dog vest, without legitimate reason.
Article 40, Paragraph 3 of the Act on Welfare of Persons with Disabilities stipulates that anyone who refuses entry to a person accompanied by an assistance dog without legitimate justification may be subject to a fine of up to 10 million won. Furthermore, Article 4, Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 6 of the Act on the Prohibition of Discrimination against and Remedy for Persons with Disabilities clearly prohibits obstructing the legitimate use of assistance dogs, categorizing it as discrimination against people with disabilities. Based on these legal foundations, the NHRCK will continue its efforts to improve public understanding of hearing assistance dogs and create an environment where people with disabilities and their assistance dogs can live safely and conveniently.
In addition to these efforts, the NHRCK is also providing etiquette guidelines regarding hearing assistance dogs. Because these dogs are trained to be sensitive to sounds, it is important not to call their names, talk to them, or take their picture. Furthermore, it is crucial to refrain from petting them or offering them food. Adhering to these etiquette guidelines is essential for facilitating the smooth operation of hearing assistance dogs and ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for both the person with the disability and their assistance dog. The NHRCK hopes that the distribution of these card news graphics will promote a better understanding of hearing assistance dogs and contribute to building a more inclusive society where people with and without disabilities can thrive together.
The NHRCK's creation and distribution of these card news graphics aligns with President Lee Jae-myung's efforts to create a more inclusive society. Consideration and respect for vulnerable members of society are crucial values in a developed nation, and improving awareness of hearing assistance dogs is essential for realizing these values. The NHRCK plans to continue promoting various policies and projects to protect the rights and expand the social participation of people with disabilities, striving to create a society where all citizens can live with equality and dignity.
An NHRCK official stated, "Hearing assistance dogs are not just animals; they are companions that improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments. We hope that the distribution of these card news graphics will positively change public perceptions of hearing assistance dogs and contribute to building a happier society where people with and without disabilities can thrive together." The official also urged local governments to actively utilize the card news graphics to provide accurate information about hearing assistance dogs to local residents and to participate in creating a society free from discrimination against people with disabilities.
In addition to the distribution of these card news graphics, the NHRCK plans to strengthen its investigation and relief activities related to discriminatory incidents involving hearing assistance dogs. By operating a counseling hotline for disability discrimination and investigating complaints of discrimination, the NHRCK will listen to the voices of people with disabilities and proactively pursue legal support and policy improvement recommendations when necessary. The NHRCK also intends to continuously improve public awareness of hearing assistance dogs by developing and distributing educational programs and strengthening cooperation with relevant organizations.
