Labour Rights

Discriminatory treatment of applicants or employees with disabilities

Non-discrimination is a fundamental principle of international human rights which extends to disability.

Persons with disabilities may be vulnerable to discrimination in an employment context where they are often denied the right to decent work. Disabled persons should be free from unreasonable discrimination on the basis of their disability, including in recruitment practices, pay and training. Often workplaces will not be free from disability discrimination unless positive actions are taken such as installing access facilities. Discrimination on the basis of disability prevents persons with disabilities from participating as equal members of society.

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities recognizes the right of persons with disabilities to work on an equal basis with others, including the right to the opportunity to be accepted in an inclusive and accessible labour market and work environment. This extends to equal opportunities, equal remuneration, training and career advancement.

Relevant Human Rights Instruments

International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, 1966, Articles 2 and 26
International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, 1966, Article 2
Declaration on the Rights of Disabled Persons, 1975
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, 2006

SDG 8

DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH

SDG 8.5

Preventing or mitigating disability discrimination risks assists in the achievement of SDG 8.5: By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.

SDG 10

REDUCED INEQUALITIES

SDG 10.2

The prevention or mitigation of disability discrimination risks also supports SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

SDG 10.3
The promotion of disability rights further assists in achieving SDG 10.3: Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies and action in this regard.