SOCIAL PROTECTION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN THE FIELD OF EMPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT

Abstract

The article discloses general theoretical and legal aspects of social protection of persons with disabilities. An analysis of the regulatory and legal regulation of social protection of persons with disabilities in Ukraine was carried out. It has been established that a significant problem is identified in the labor market in overcoming the imbalance between the demand and supply of this specific labor force. Persons with disabilities continue to be a category that suffers from discrimination, including in the labor market. Increasing opportunities for their competitive participation in the field of employment for full socialization in society requires state intervention. According to the latest statistical data, in 2023, the number of people with disabilities increased by approximately 27 000. It is argued that an important role in the socialization of persons with disabilities is played by the system of their professional rehabilitation, which should ensure involvement in employment and employment taking into account their physical capabilities and personal inclinations. The international community, of which Ukraine is a member, has adopted a number of acts aimed at helping people with disabilities realize their opportunities and abilities, remain in society and have an adequate standard of living. In particular, the key provisions proclaim equal opportunities in obtaining education, restoring work capacity, professional training, employment, and employment. Therefore, the issue of quality education, employment and employment of persons with disabilities is one of the priority directions for the formation and implementation of state policy in this area. Ukraine must ensure and encourage the realization of the right to work of persons with disabilities by implementing, including by law, appropriate measures aimed at: expanding opportunities for individual labor activity, entrepreneurship, development of cooperatives and organization of one’s own business; employment of persons with disabilities in the public sector; implementation of measures for reasonable adaptation of the workplace for persons with disabilities; stimulating employment of persons with disabilities in the private sector; encouraging the specified persons to gain work experience in the conditions of the open labor market; promotion of vocational rehabilitation programs, preservation of jobs and return of persons with disabilities to work. The importance of supporting vulnerable population groups by state and local authorities in martial law by developing effective programs through effective promotion of tripartite social dialogue was noted. General conclusions were made and suggestions were made regarding the improvement of the legal regulation of social protection of persons with disabilities in the outlined area.