On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we must confront a stark reality: employment opportunities for persons with disabilities remain alarmingly unequal. While the general population enjoys an employment rate of 75%, only 51% of persons with disabilities are in work. For women with disabilities, the situation is even more dire: just 48.3% are employed, and when it comes to full-time work, the figures plummet to 20.6% for women and 28.5% for men.

This inequality is compounded by precarious working conditions and persistent discrimination, leaving nearly one in three persons with disabilities (28.8%) at risk of poverty or social exclusion, compared to 18% of the general population. These numbers are not just statistics, they represent lives constrained by systemic barriers.

Guidelines and voluntary measures are not enough. Relying on the goodwill of employers will not deliver equality. We need binding commitments and enforceable rights.

Trade unions call for urgent action on the following fronts:

  1. Enforce Reasonable Accommodation
    Reasonable accommodation is not optional—it is a right for workers and an obligation for employers. This must be enforced across all sectors. Collective bargaining and social dialogue are powerful tools to ensure accommodations, including adapted working time arrangements, are implemented effectively.
  2. Guarantee Wage Compatibility with Disability Entitlements
    Disability entitlements are essential to cover additional costs linked to disabilities. We demand compatibility between wages and entitlements, so that employment does not penalize workers with disabilities.
  3. Retain Workers with Chronic Diseases
    Retention strategies must include return-to-work measures developed in consultation with trade unions. Collective agreements are vital to prevent occupational health risks and support workers facing chronic conditions.
  4. Support Mobility Rights
    Enhanced mobility rights are crucial for equal opportunities within the EU. We urge policymakers to address barriers related to disability entitlements for those exercising their right to work or study abroad.
  5. Invest in Inclusive Training and Skills
    Inclusive training programs, supported by assistive technologies and adapted teaching methodologies, are key to enabling persons with disabilities to participate fully in professional and social life.

Judith Kirton-Darling, industriAll Europe General Secretary:
“Our message is clear: Equality cannot be achieved through rhetoric alone. It requires binding measures, strong enforcement, and active involvement of trade unions. IndustriAll Europe has pledged to step up action for people with disabilities, and today, we reaffirm our commitment to being accessible and welcoming to workers with disabilities. We call on employers and policymakers to do the same.”

See also the ETUC resolution on defending the rights of workers with disabilities