Celebrating women with disabilities

Today, 8th March, marks an important day for women around the world: International Women’s Day. At Handicap International, we celebrate all of the courageous women we work algonside, and especially those with disabilities. We recognise the exceptional achievements of working women with disabilities, acknowledging the additional challenges that they overcome and the significant contributions they make in their communities.

Access to paid work

Women (and men) with disabilities do not have the same opportunities for waged employment as people without disabilities. When people with disabilities find work, they are often paid less than their counterparts without disabilities. Research conducted by Handicap International in 10 countries[1] shows that, “Women with disabilities face an additional layer of discrimination because of their gender, and correspondingly have even fewer opportunities to engage in work. As a result, women with disabilities are more likely to be poor, excluded, and unemployed than men with disabilities.”

Bridging the gap 

Handicap International is working to redress these injustices. Our rehabilitation services help women who are injured in natural disaster or conflict, regain independence and strength needed to carry out a job. Our specialised inclusive employment projects work closely with local employers to confront real and perceived barriers to employment, giving more women with disabilities the opportunity for fair, waged employment. We also provide personalized training to help women with disabilities gain the skills and confidence needed to reach their full potential.