Jan Prokeš

Firstly, I would like to say that the internship at MDAC was an excellent opportunity to learn on the issues of international human rights and disability. Since I had only a little knowledge of these issues I spent the first days of my internship studying the crucial literature and getting to know the office better. After this short introductory period I started to fulfil a variety of interesting tasks my supervisors gave me, I attended weekly meetings and participated on seminars on fundraising and finance.

The main project I have worked on was research on the evolution of Canadian legislation regarding the legal capacity and implementation of the concept of supported-decision making and examination of its compliance with the CRPD. Also I have assisted with preparation of the cage beds monitoring project by executing of survey on the current state of use of the cage beds in Czech psychiatric institutions. I prepared stakeholder analysis for Czech Republic and Slovakia on the right to vote, summarised articles on torture in psychiatric institutions and helped with other smaller tasks.

I was very satisfied with my stay at the MDAC and I highly value this experience.  I especially appreciate that I could see how an international human rights NGO operates and how it promotes its goals. Also I have to note that working environment at the office is very positive and friendly. I am glad that I could contribute to some of its work.

Jan Prokeš