Digitalized world of work: opportunities and risks for people with disabilities
Technological development harbors opportunities and risks for people with disabilities. The Federal Council has adopted a report on the impact of digitalization on the working and employment conditions of people with disabilities. The report also shows how the challenges should be dealt with.
Technological and economic change presents a range of opportunities and risks for people with disabilities. However, these opportunities and risks are unevenly distributed. People with disabilities who have good vocational qualifications, can use assistive technologies and have a supportive environment are particularly likely to benefit from technological progress. In contrast, people with disabilities who are of working age, have gaps and breaks in their employment history or have low qualifications and basic skills are likely to find it more difficult to hold their own in the world of work. This is the conclusion of a report by the Federal Council in response to postulate 16.4169 Bruderer Wyss "Inclusive working environment in the light of digitalization".
Good framework conditions are key
Good framework conditions that promote professional inclusion and break down existing barriers are therefore of great importance. Ensuring equal access to a permeable education system is a priority. This includes access to vocational education and training and to structures that enable and promote lifelong learning. It is also important that people with disabilities receive the technical aids and personal support they need to make the most of their abilities and develop them further. It is equally important that employers take their social and economic responsibility seriously and make it easier for people with disabilities to participate in digital development. With an inclusive corporate and company culture, flexible and individually adaptable working conditions and an accessible ICT environment, companies can make the most of the potential of people with disabilities.
Sufficient structures
For the Federal Council, the existing structures and ongoing efforts are sufficient to further develop the framework conditions for the professional integration of people with disabilities and adapt them to future challenges. It has therefore decided not to take any additional measures. The relevant legislative and implementation work includes, in particular, the Federal Council's 2023-26 disability policy with the partial revision of the Disability Discrimination Act contained therein, and the 2025-28 ERI Dispatch.
Source: Federal Council
