Abstract

Large-scale diffusion of information and communication technologies (ICTs) have opened up many opportunities for people with disabilities, such as building solidarity, pursuing employment and achieving independent living. However, many people with disabilities face multiple barriers to accessing ICTs, including lack of skills required to use or keep pace with advances in them. This project will explore the significance of ICTs as equalizers of abilities. Researchers will analyze the socio-labour situation and profile of people with disabilities in nine Latin American countries and assess whether capacity building in ICTs and telework constitute an alternative for bringing them into the labour force. The study will include both macro (quantitative) and micro (qualitative) data for a holistic vision of the situation. The researchers will also endeavor to detect whether and how existing norms and regulations for the inclusion of the disabled in the workforce are being enforced in each country. The recommendations flowing from the research will be directed to stakeholders involved in the social and labour inclusion of disabled persons.

Recipient Institution(s)