Labor inclusion of People with Disabilities: critical perceptions of two public institutions in Itapúa

Abstract

This article presents the results of a research project conducted in 2024, focused on investigating whether public institutions in Itapúa guarantee employment for persons with disabilities (PwD) as required by national legislation, as well as identifying the main achievements and barriers these institutions face in ensuring equal inclusion. The methodology applied consisted of a three-phase descriptive qualitative research design: a documentary review of relevant doctrine, current regulations, and policies related to the right to work for PwD; and semi-structured interviews with those responsible for human resources in the selected institutions: the Municipality of Encarnación and the Government of Itapúa. The data obtained were analyzed comparatively, identifying common and divergent patterns between both institutions. The results were validated with the interviewees to ensure the accuracy of the information reflected. The findings showed that while the institutions are committed to incorporating PwD into their workforce, progress remains insufficient due to barriers such as bureaucratic limitations, lack of staff training, and inadequate reasonable accommodations and accessibility measures that hinder the effective labor integration of PwD.