Successful international and regional practices for increasing employment rates among people with disabilities
Abstract
This article analyzes global and regional employment practices for citizens with disabilities (PWDs), identifies key barriers, and develops recommendations for enhancing labor market inclusivity. The author emphasizes that the challenge of PWD employment persists both in Russia and globally, despite progress in social and legal protection. The main obstacles include stereotypes, inadequate infrastructure adaptation, formalistic compliance with legislative employment quotas, and low employer awareness of the potential of PWDs. Within the Russian practice, the author highlights regional successes (Belgorod Oblast, Moscow, Saint Petersburg), where PWD integration has been achieved through digital services, supported employment schemes, and social entrepreneurship. However, systemic problems endure only 28% of companies employ PWDs, while 72% of employers have no plans to do so, citing bureaucracy and a lack of incentives. The finding proposes measures for Russia: expanding tax incentives, implementing inclusion training for HR specialists, developing protected workshops, and strengthening the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs). It is underscored that inclusive employment constitutes not a social burden, but an investment in human capital capable of reducing dependency on benefits and enhancing business competitiveness. The research draws upon statistical data, comparative analysis of legislation and case studies, as well as results from surveys of employers and PWDs. The findings can be applied to develop targeted employment programs and harmonize Russian policy with international standards. Based on a comparative analysis of international experience (USA, Germany, Japan, Scandinavian countries), successful strategies are identified: combining strict quotas with tax incentives, developing personalized support programs, digitalization of work processes, and cross-sectoral cooperation. Particular attention is paid to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which, on the one hand, exacerbated social inequality, and on the other, accelerated the adoption of hybrid employment formats, especially within the IT sector.
Keywords
disability,
employment of people with disabilities,
international experience,
inclusive employment,
inclusive programs,
employment programs
Supporting agencies: The article was prepared based on the results of the research carried out at the expense of budgetary funds on the state assignment of the Financial University.
About the Author
D. V. Nekipelova
Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation
Россия
Россия
Daria V. Nekipelova – Candidate of Economic Sciences, senior researcher of the Institute of Regional Economics and Inter-Budgetary Relations
Moscow
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For citations:
Nekipelova D.V. Successful international and regional practices for increasing employment rates among people with disabilities. Vestnik of Samara State University of Economics. 2025;(12):31-45. (In Russ.)
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