Following his June visit to France, the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Michael O’Flaherty addressed a letter to the French Minister for Autonomy and Persons with Disabilities, encouraging systemic improvements in long-term care facilities (EHPADs).

While welcoming reforms, including enhanced oversight and the commitment of care staff to residents’ dignity, well-being and human rights, the Commissioner points to several challenges:

• He recommends improving staff/resident ratios, providing the necessary resources for recruitment and training, supporting staff retention, and upgrading facilities that are in disrepair, cramped, or ill-equipped for climate change.
• The Commissioner also calls for strengthened inspections, including through increased cooperation between relevant authorities, with a focus on residents’ human rights and quality of life.  Expanding home- and community-based care should go hand in hand with ensuring adequate resources for rights-respecting residential care.
• Lastly, the Commissioner recommends combating ageism and ensuring that older persons are treated as full rights holders and meaningfully involved in decisions affecting them.

• Read the Commissioner’s letter addressed to the Minister responsible for Autonomy and Persons with Disabilities of France
• Read the Minister responsible for Autonomy and Persons with Disabilities of France’s reply (in French)