LABOUR MARKET PARTICIPATION OF THE DISABLED: POLICIES AND PRACTICES IN EUROPE

This article presents the main findings of a multi-country comparative study of the labour market participation of a specific group: the disabled. European policies and practices to help these persons to find and hold down satisfying jobs are mapped out. An overview of the available instruments and facilities to support the integration of these 'outsiders' is then provided. The article discusses the expenditure on and performance of national systems regarding the participation of disabled persons. It concludes that financial resources are not sufficient to convince employers to offer them a job. In all selected countries employers appear to be hesitant to hire disabled persons. The article ends with an assessment of the lessons that can be learned from national good practices.