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 ![[----------------Horizontal Rule----------------]](/webart/hrule.gif){kind=small}  Article 4. Helping at the international levelSpreading democracies, human rights movements, an aging population, an increasing number of persons with disabilities and advances in medicine and technology have a profound impact on rehabilitation practices throughout the world. As a result, we see a growing juxtaposition between expanding social-political movements and shrinking economic resources. Although countries with limited resources are more likely to have a limited social awareness of people with disabilities, their needs and the field of rehabilitation, this is not always the case. In Israel, India and a growing number of other countries, knowledge of augmentative communication among some professionals and families is comparable to any other nation. Conversely, despite Japan's technological sophistication, AAC is just beginning to be considered. Collaborative international efforts to help must be preceded by efforts to learn. To be effective, we must extend our learning beyond AAC, assistive technology and rehabilitation. Dr. Sophie Kalman4 of Budapest, Hungary poignantly stated this idea at the recent IRV symposium. She said, "We are using the same words, but not speaking the same language. For those who wish to assist people in Eastern and Central Europe, former Soviet bloc countries, it is necessary to grasp the devastating consequences of the last forty years of the so-called socialism." Dr. Kalman characterized "socialism" as a paternalistic society: We know best what's good for you, and we'll do it for you, sometimes even against your own will. We'll take care of you and in exchange you just do what we say you can do. You'll be grateful and quiet, and we'll be generous. Most people in Hungary and other countries in the former Soviet bloc have no experiences that allow them to grasp concepts such as "personalized services, individual solutions, special care and family support systems." Under these circumstances, assistive technology isn't even a dream! Thus, Dr. Kalman perceives that a critical task in Eastern and Central Europe is to change the general attitude toward people with disabilities. When people offer to help their international neighbors, they must first really understand the attitudes and experiences of the people with disabilities, professionals, government officials and families who live there. She writes, "First there must be an understanding between supported and supporter." First we should create a common language."6 Helping requires listening to what is meant as well as to what is said.
I just received a letter from a friend in Bulgaria. For years, he has sought information about AAC and opportunities to further his studies. His last letter told of a $300,000 project underway in his country. I share his words, which were at once full of hope and disillusionment. He wrote, "The project is meant to strengthen our structure of institutions for mentally handicapped persons and the parents' organization." Later, he said: "Very soon through the journey around the country it became evident that these people came to defend some interest of their Embassy and also their own part of the project. One-third of the available money will go to support their travel costs, insurance and salaries. After a week visiting the local municipalities, institutions and after using all my knowledge, my heart and English language skills, I was awarded $30." Concepts of social responsibility are spreading, and the world is growing closer. We must guard against paternalistic tendencies–everywhere. This article appears in ACN Volume 7, # 3. You may order this issue by clicking on Ordering Home Page Online Ordering 
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