Since 1993, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities has been observed annually on December 3. The goal of the day is to draw attention to the situation of people with disabilities and to raise awareness of their rights, dignity, and well-being.
An IG Metall survey of approximately 1,000 representatives for employees with severe disabilities (SBV) now shows that people with disabilities face increasingly bleak prospects in the workplace. In 83 percent of companies, their job insecurity is growing, and in one in four, it is growing significantly. Only 5 percent report greater job security.
“Employees with disabilities are among the first victims of the escalating crisis in workplaces,” says IG Metall’s Social Affairs Director Hans-Jürgen Urban. “People with severe disabilities need solidarity and security in the workplace, especially now.”
An accessible job market for all is necessary
The main causes of diminished prospects are job cuts and restructuring within companies (84 percent). 44 percent of the SBV report that jobs held by employees with disabilities are being specifically eliminated. Nearly a quarter (23 percent) criticize a lack of integration into the workplace. The greatest challenges for employees with disabilities are physical demands (68 percent), followed by poor work organization (40 percent)—such as time pressure, unclear tasks, or monotonous work.
Urban calls for a “barrier-free labor market for all” and tangible sanctions for companies that do not employ enough severely disabled individuals. “It is clearly not enough for companies to be able to buy their way out of this cheaply with a compensation levy. Those who disregard statutory rights to participation must face consequences.”
Inclusion Must Not Be Thwarted by a Disability
However, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is not just about raising awareness: it’s about speaking out loudly in all areas of life where people with disabilities are marginalized, demanding that this must come to an end.
That is what we do at IG Metall. Day after day, we advocate for a modern society in which participation is not hindered by a disability. We are working with all our might for an inclusive workplace and an inclusive labor market. All people must have the same rights—regardless of whether they have a disability or not. It’s about breaking down barriers. It’s about making participation possible.
That’s what we’re fighting for. That’s what we’re committed to. Not just on December 3.
