Employment of People with Disabilities: Legal Restrictions and Opportunities
In Ukraine, the employment of persons with disabilities is regulated by a comprehensive set of legal norms and regulations designed to ensure equal opportunities and protections under the law.
According to the Ukrainian Constitution and other legislative acts, individuals with disabilities have the right to fair access to employment, social guarantees, and state support.
Nonetheless, there are certain legal restrictions based on the health condition of these individuals.
Experts from the State Labour Service, particularly representatives of the South-East Interregional Department, clarified when an employer can refuse to hire a person with disabilities or take disciplinary actions against employees.
They emphasized that it is prohibited to refuse to sign an employment contract, dismiss, or transfer a person without their consent solely due to their disability.
Such actions constitute violations unless explicitly permitted under Article 17 of the Law “On the Fundamentals of Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities in Ukraine.” Exceptions are made when medical and social expert evaluations determine that the health condition prevents performing specific job duties or poses a threat to the health and safety of others.
In such cases, employment restrictions or termination may be legally justified.
Additionally, guidance is provided on how employers can receive compensation for employing persons with disabilities, which plays a vital role in fostering an inclusive labor market in Ukraine.