Public Policies for the Labor Inclusion of People with Disabilities and Their Relationship with Social Sustainability: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Abstract

People with disabilities face multiple challenges in the labor sphere, including barriers to access, discrimination, lower job stability, and limited opportunities for development, all of which restrict their economic and social participation. In response to this reality, public policies aimed at labor inclusion have gained increasing relevance due to their potential to reduce inequalities and strengthen social sustainability. The aim of this study was to analyze public policies designed for the labor inclusion of people with disabilities by identifying their main characteristics, target populations, implementation barriers, and their relationship with social sustainability. The PRISMA methodology was applied, and, as a result of the search, selection, and evaluation process, 75 primary studies were included in the analysis. The results show that policies are mainly concentrated on measures to facilitate access to employment, incentives for employers, and vocational training, while entrepreneurship receives less attention. Most policies are directed toward people with disabilities in general, with limited attention to specific subgroups. Persistent barriers were identified, including prejudice, weak institutional coordination, and a gap between regulatory frameworks and their effective implementation. It is concluded that, although these policies show progress in terms of inclusion, their contribution to social sustainability depends on more effective, better coordinated, and more responsive implementation that takes into account the diversity of needs within this population.