Almost everyone experiences disability temporarily at some point in their life. Today, over one billion people, or around 15% of the global population, live with some form of disability.
People with disabilities are among the most neglected people in the world. Often, they do not have access to adequate healthcare services, education, and work opportunities. As a result, they are more likely to fall below the poverty line and over four times less likely to find employment when compared to people without disability.
In India, there are 26.8 million people with disabilities (PwD) recognised under the 21 types of disabilities listed in the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016. Often PwD experiences discriminatory treatment, stigmatisation and erroneously associated with dependence and helplessness. These iniquitous practices create a situation where PwD lacks adequate social protection and faces barriers to be a part of the workforce.
For the one billion men and women with disabilities, inclusion in the labour market, and society in general, requires the breaking down of these existing barriers.
Despite the challenges they face, PwD possesses tremendous potential to contribute to the economy and society. In a recent report, hiring people with disabilities not only improves the profitability of a company but also promotes positive work culture, increases employee satisfaction, loyalty, productivity, and fosters a sense of community in the workplace. At the same time, economies that embrace people with disabilities on equitable standing are more likely to flourish in the long-run.
Every year, the number of people with disabilities increases due to the rise in chronic health conditions. Excluding people with disabilities means we exclude young and talented people each year from economic activities. Today, companies have larger openings than ever before to bring in PwD not only as customers but also as employees and leaders. By including people with disabilities, companies gain access to an untapped pool of talent which creates multiplier impact such as increased innovation, engagement and retention, reputation and appeal toward a greater consumer base.
Inclusive development cannot be achieved without the inclusion of PwD in the workplace. Their involvement benefits companies, and ultimately the country. Companies that embrace inclusion are more successful and richer from diversity and sustainable practices.
Working together, we can create a more empowering environment for people with disabilities.
This article was written to provide the business case for the inclusion of people with disability to support the achievement of the following Sustainable Development Goals: