Publisher's Synopsis
"Thousands of children and adults with disabilities in Brazil end up living in institutions for extended periods of time, many for their entire lives. People with disabilities in institutions in Brazil are isolated from society, lack any meaningful control over their lives, and may face serious abuse and neglect. Many adults in institutions are unlawfully detained in violation of Brazil's obligations under international law because a guardian has placed them there, and they have no right to contest their institutionalization. [This report] is based on visits to 19 institutions in Brazil and dozens of interviews with people with disabilities and others. ... Children with disabilities in institutions are often needlessly separated from their families due to lack of community support. Long-term placement in institutions can have serious consequences for children's physical, intellectual, and emotional development. ... Human Rights Watch ur
