Factors Influencing Employability of Persons with Disabilities in India: A Systematic Review Protocol

Abstract

Employment is a social determinant of health. There is compelling evidence that work improves general health and well-being and reduces psychological stress. People with disabilities are more likely to be unemployed and generally earn less even when employed. Despite the recent strides in terms of legislative frameworks aligned to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) 2004 (which India ratified in 2007) like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) act 2016, the social reality of the employment status of the Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) is in stark contrast. Several barriers contribute to the disadvantages experienced by people with disabilities while seeking jobs and retention of meaningful employment. Literature showed many studies regarding employment-related issues particularly employability of PwDs, but very few have studied local factors coming into play. This study aims to develop a systematic review protocol to systematically analyze and synthesize the existing knowledge within this area in India for planning future interventions. The protocol has already been registered to PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. (Registration ID. CRD42023407717) Keywords: Persons with disabilities, Systematic review protocol, Employment, Health care, Sustainable development, Indian context, Rights of persons with disabilities