Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Disabled Persons) Convention, 1983

Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Disabled Persons) Convention, 1983

The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Disabled Persons) Convention, 1983 is an international labor convention adopted by the International Labour Organization (ILO) aimed at promoting the vocational rehabilitation and employment of disabled persons. It is also known as Convention No. 159.

Adoption and Ratification

The convention was adopted on June 20, 1983, during the 69th session of the International Labour Conference. It came into force on June 20, 1985, after being ratified by the required number of member states. As of the latest update, numerous countries have ratified the convention, committing to its principles and obligations.

Purpose and Objectives

The primary objective of the convention is to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to provide vocational rehabilitation and employment opportunities for disabled persons. It seeks to promote equality of opportunity and treatment in employment for disabled persons, thereby enhancing their integration into the workforce and society.

Key Provisions

Definition of Disabled Persons

The convention defines "disabled persons" as individuals whose prospects of securing, retaining, and advancing in suitable employment are substantially reduced as a result of a duly recognized physical or mental impairment.

Vocational Rehabilitation

Member states are required to formulate, implement, and periodically review a national policy on vocational rehabilitation and employment of disabled persons. This policy should be based on the principle of equal opportunity and should aim to enable disabled persons to secure, retain, and advance in employment.

Employment Promotion

The convention emphasizes the need for member states to promote employment opportunities for disabled persons in the open labor market. It encourages the development of vocational training programs, employment services, and other measures to support the employment of disabled persons.

Consultation and Cooperation

Member states are encouraged to consult with representative organizations of employers and workers, as well as organizations of and for disabled persons, in the development and implementation of policies and programs related to vocational rehabilitation and employment.

Implementation and Monitoring

The ILO provides technical assistance and guidance to member states in implementing the provisions of the convention. Member states are required to report periodically on the measures they have taken to give effect to the convention and the results achieved.

Impact and Significance

The Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (Disabled Persons) Convention, 1983, has played a significant role in raising awareness and promoting the rights of disabled persons in the labor market. It has influenced national policies and legislation in many countries, contributing to improved access to vocational training and employment opportunities for disabled persons.

Related Conventions and Recommendations

The convention is part of a broader framework of ILO standards aimed at promoting the rights and welfare of disabled persons. It complements other conventions and recommendations, such as the Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 and the Employment Policy Convention, 1964.

See Also

• International Labour Organization
• Disability rights
• Vocational training