Progressing toward equal opportunity in social and occupacional inclusion of person with disabilities

Abstract

Over the last few decades, significant progress has been made with regard to recognition of the rights of people with disabilities. In this context, and given the potential offered by employment in terms of integration, overcoming the inequalities which still prevail in the productive sector has become a primary aim. For that reason, this study analyses the position of disabled people in the Spanish labour market, paying attention to the diverse variables which shape and influence that position. At the same time, reference is made to the main factors which obstruct and limit the integration of the people with disabilities in the employment sector. These factors are synthesized and their causes and possible ways in which they may be overcome are established. Finally, the fundamental itineraries of integration in the world of work are outlined, focusing attention on Supported Employment as a means of intervention which has been shown to be efficient and in line with the principles of equality of opportunities and non-segregation which are preeminent in the Spanish regulatory framework. The article concludes by underlining the theoretical and methodological implications of the analysis, which stress the need for integrated action which permit inclusion in the different social spheres, and recommending the principles of mainstreaming and coordination.