Conclusion

In the ESCWA region as in other locations across the world, persons with disabilities face complex and interconnected challenges in accessing employment opportunities. While most countries of the region have signed and/or ratified the international conventions and instruments for protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and improving their lives, national legislation remains the most effective and direct means for making a dent in inequality and exclusion, and for facilitating the inclusion of persons with disabilities in mainstream society.

Despite some progress in formulating and amending legislation over the past decade, gaps in implementing the disability-rights related instruments still exist. The transformation of the social landscape and attitudes towards the employment of persons with disabilities definitely calls for greater commitment and enforcement. It also requires a more comprehensive approach to disability that begins with disability prevention and encompasses awareness-raising, education, rehabilitation, health care, training and employment, in addition to disability pension and benefits. There is an urgent need to address the existing facets of discrimination and to ensure the right of persons with disabilities to participate on an equal basis in political, civil, economic, social and cultural activities. 

As the demographic and epidemiologic transition proceeds and as concerns for the increased costs of disability insurance and unemployment are heightened, ESCWA member countries are urged to gear more efforts towards preparing the public health sector to cater for the potential increase in the number of persons with disabilities in the years to come. They are also invited to avail from the lessons learned by other countries and facilitate accessibility of people with disabilities to proper training and to jobs that meet their expectations, abilities and labour market demands. Investing in the potential of persons with disabilities and providing them with the right opportunities is crucial if governments in the region are to reach full and decent employment, promote inclusive development and achieve MDGs.