SOURCES OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS IN LAW VS. ACCESSIBILITY FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN THE EU AND IN POLAND

Abstract

The meaning of space for persons with disabilities is a research area in geography, urban planning, spatial planning and architecture, also in sociology and public policy. Accessibility has become a focus of interdisciplinary research. The development of accessibility standards and new technologies also presents challenges for legal science.

GIS provides data for planning and implementation decisions by policy makers, and then evaluate the implementation. It also serves to enhance the effectiveness of the rights of persons with disabilities. Inadequate spatial planning means that the rights of persons with disabilities are not exercised despite being declared in the law.

The use of GIS is growing ever more widespread, and their strengthened role in disability studies allows to enhance the autonomy of persons with disabilities and foster their integration into society. One of the key issue for the development of GIS in this area undoubtedly comes from the regulations that guarantee access to the physical environment, transport, other facilities, information and communication and public services.

While the sources of legal regulation of accessibility standards and how to ensure accessibility in the traditional sense are known, the basics of GIS for people with disabilities are still insufficiently analyzed.

However, it is also worth looking at the legal basis for the functioning of GIS itself.  This article aims to examine the sources of law for the functioning of GIS and its application for people with disabilities in EU and Polish law.