BARRIERS TO INCLUSION: THE STRUGGLES OF WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examines (un)employment challenges and discrimination experienced by women with disabilities.  The study uses interviews and FGDs to elucidate multifaceted challenges related to the (un)employment  of women with disabilities. The findings show that in patriarchal and ableist social structure, disabled women experience extreme economic hardships, exacerbated by discriminatory attitudes from colleagues and supervisors. In addition to these challenges, their impairments also influence job performance and career prospects, resulting in reduced social standing, lower self-perception and lower quality of life.