The Dilemmas and Challenges of Vocational Activation for People with Disabilities in Poland

Abstract

People with disabilities need substantial support from the state in order to undertake and perform work. They also require support in gaining appropriate qualifications and education. The Polish system of vocational rehabilitation obliges employers to employ a certain number of people with disabilities, and those who do not fulfil this obligation must make payments to the State Fund for the Rehabilitation of People with Disabilities. The resources of the Fund are spent mainly on funding the salaries of employees with disabilities. Nevertheless, the labour market indicators for people with disabilities, despite assistance from the state, are still low, especially compared to non-disabled people. The state faces a dilemma associated with decisions as to what entities and what amounts of assistance should be provided, as well as the challenge of ensuring adequate funds to cover all the expenses related to the rehabilitation and vocational participation of disabled people.