Support is not Tutelage

Disability and the Right to Self-determination in Ecuador

Abstract

In Ecuador, the discussion about recognition of the legal capacity for people with disabilities is basically non-existent. Therefore, many families are unaware that, in legal terms, their responsibility implies, above all, respect of self-determination of their family members with disabilities, so they perpetuate a traditional role of substitution and protection. This text analyzes national regulations and binding international instruments. From there, it approaches the configuration of new imaginaries that understand disability from a human rights perspective. The objective is to highlight the need of a legal framework that allows families to assume a role that does not confuse support with guardianship.