Shifting people from one segregated system to another is not inclusion, even if the new setting is better and located within the community. Upgrading the physical environment alone does not automatically signify progress in terms of rights or inclusion. A "beautiful home" may conceal the reality that residents still have limited choice, autonomy, and control over their own lives. In such cases, institutionalisation continues-simply under a different label.

Similarly, moving an educational service from a segregated environment into a community-based setting does not eliminate segregation. While the form may change-different building, new operator, community location-the substance remains the same: a separate, non-inclusive service.

According to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Articles 19 and 24), persons with disabilities should not be shuffled between institutions or special services. The true aim is to enable them to live independently, make their own choices, and access mainstream services.

Marthese Mugliette, President of The Malta Federation of Organisations Persons with Disability