Inclusive employment in the Arab region: challenges and policy recommendations

ESCWA, the Executive Bureau of the Councils of Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, the International Disability Alliance, the Higher Council for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Jordan, the International Labour Organization Regional Office for Arab States, and the United Nations Population Fund are organizing a side event on “Inclusive Employment in the Arab region: Challenges and Policy Recommendations” during the Third Global Disability Summit taking place in Berlin, Germany from 2-3 April 2025.

The side event aims to explore the barriers limiting employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in the Arab region and propose policy recommendations to promote inclusive and equitable employment. Discussions focus on systemic, societal, and organizational challenges, as well as practical solutions to enhance workplace accessibility, vocational training, and employers' engagement.

Participants include government officials and policymakers, business leaders, human resources professionals, academics, researchers in disability studies and labour economics, in addition to representatives of organizations of persons with disabilities, advocacy groups, nongovernmental organizations and international organizations, as well as persons with disabilities.