[Chapter I.2.] Transnational Legal Frameworks and Context of Employment and Intellectual Disability

Chapter Title: Transnational Legal Frameworks and Context of Employment and Intellectual Disability

Author(s)

Júlia Pereira - Lusófona University, CICANT, Portugal
Carla Sousa - Lusófona University, CICANT, Portugal
Andreia Matos - Adapt4you, Portugal
Stefano Cobello - Polo Europeo della Conoscenza, Italy
Elena Milli - Polo Europeo della Conoscenza, Italy
Gülce Güner - Wise Academy, Sweden
Emre Hüseyin Yiğit - Wise Academy, Sweden
Gülben Cura - Yoncalar Association, Türkiye
Şenay Kızılkum - Yoncalar Association, Türkiye

https://doi.org/10.24140/nobarriers.v1.p01.02

Abstract

This chapter highlights the importance of employment for Persons with Intellectual Disability (PwID), focusing on its impact on wellbeing and social inclusion. Mainly, it reviews the existing legal frameworks in Italy, Portugal, Sweden, and Türkiye to explore how they facilitate the workplace inclusion of these individuals. As a result, the developed research finds persistent challenges in implementing legal frameworks, aligning PwID’s skills with job market demands, and providing comprehensive support. It also emphasises the importance of reasonable accommodations in the workplace and discusses the successes and limitations of legal and societal initiatives in the four case study countries. Conclusively, it calls for a holistic approach that includes improving legislation, enhancing support systems, and raising awareness to ensure the effective inclusion of PwID in the workforce, underlining the need for societal and legal reforms to bridge the gap between intention and practice in the employment of PwID.

Keywords: Intellectual Disability; Employment; Workplace Inclusion; Legal Frameworks; Reasonable Accommodations.

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Relevance of the Chapter for People with Intellectual Disability (PwID): This chapter is particularly relevant for PwID as it not only highlights the benefits of employment, such as increased self-esteem, a sense of purpose, and financial independence but also identifies the barriers that hinder full participation in the workforce. Through its comprehensive analysis, the chapter serves as a relevant resource for policymakers, employers, and advocates, urging a collective effort to remove obstacles and promote the employment inclusion of PwID, thereby affirming their rights and contributions to society.

Cite as: Pereira, J., Sousa, C., Matos, A., Cobello, S., Tutone, L., Milli, E., Güner, G., Hüseyin Yiğit, E., Cura, G., & Kızılkum, S. (2024). Transnational Legal Frameworks and Context. In C. Sousa, J. Pereira, & C. Casimiro (Eds.), No Barriers: Strategies and Best Practices for the Employment of Individuals with Intellectual Disability (pp. 9-35). Edições Universitárias Lusófonas. https://doi.org/10.24140/nobarriers.v1.p01.02