Living with Disability

Abstract

Nicolae Ceausescu's regime in Romania, beginning in 1965, aimed at industrializing the country by increasing the labor force, leading to the development of large-scale housing blocks across Romania following the Soviet model. Urban planning and design were instrumental in serving political objectives such as industrial development, urban homogenization, and social control. However, amidst these grand architectural visions, the experiences of individuals with disabilities have been largely overlooked. The government's policies toward individuals with disabilities reflected a belief that they were incapable of contributing to a socialist society, resulting in their marginalization and neglect. This thesis explores the experiences of individuals with motor disabilities in Romania during the 20th century, shedding light on their marginalized narratives within the context of socialist-era architectural decisions. Through historical analysis, case studies of housing developments and interviews with residents, the research will be led by the question “How did the political policies and architectural design strategies employed during the construction of socialist era building blocks in Romania shape the living conditions, accessibility, and well-being of the disabled community?" The paper argues that architecture acted as a barrier to the integration of the disabled community, directly leading to increased institutionalization rates among individuals with physical and motor disabilities, as it substantially hindered their ability to lead typical lives within their homes. The thesis contributes to contemporary discussions on inclusive urban planning and societal perceptions, highlighting the importance of considering diverse perspectives and understanding the history of the context in architectural design and policymaking.