Exploring the Determinants of Labour Participation among Persons with Disabilities

Abstract

The objective of the study is to estimate the impact of various factors on the labour force participation of disabled persons, focusing on three key dimensions: demographic, socioeconomic, and contextual factors. The study uses micro-level data from the Labour Force Survey (LFS) 2020-21, with a sample of 23,443 persons with disabilities. Logistic regression modeling was employed, given the binary nature of the labor participation variable. The analysis reveals a parabolic relationship between age and participation, with participation increasing during middle age and declining at older ages, reflecting life cycle patterns. Pronounced gender disparities show females being less inclined to participate in the labour force. Marital status plays a key role, with married and widowed individuals more likely to participate than their never-married counterparts. Individuals from less developed provinces and urban areas are less likely to participate, while education and household income positively influence participation. Conversely, certified disabilities reduce participation, reflecting systemic barriers and diminished economic necessity. The reliance on disability allowances do not impact the likelihood of labour participation. These findings emphasize the need to address structural and social inequalities to enhance labour force participation among persons with disabilities.

Keywords: Labour Participation, Disability, Person with disabilities, Labour Force Survey