Barriers and Prospects of Employment for People with Disabilities in Kazakhstan: An Empirical Study

Abstract

Inclusive employment of persons with disabilities is an important area of social policy in the context of sustainable development. The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the state and prospects of inclusive employment in the Republic of Kazakhstan for 2021–2024.

Purpose – to identify structural, regional, and institutional factors influencing the involvement of persons with disabilities in the labor market, as well as to analyze the dynamics of inclusive employment.

Methods – a mixed methodological approach was applied, including statistical analysis of demographic and social characteristics (gender, type of impairment, place of residence, and disability groups) and in-depth semi-structured interviews with 35 representatives of various disability categories. Government support measures were also examined, and their effectiveness was assessed using the example of Astana.

Results – significant regional differences in employment levels were identified, key barriers to labor market inclusion were determined, and uneven effectiveness of state programs was revealed. Positive examples were noted, including initiatives by public organizations and the expansion of online training opportunities. Recommendations were formulated to improve working conditions, provide tax incentives, increase digital literacy, and strengthen informational support.

Conclusions – the study confirms the importance of inclusive employment as an element of sustainable development; the findings contribute to improving employment strategies and enhancing the participation of persons with disabilities in the social and economic life of the country.