Ukraine has adopted a law obliging authorities to employ persons with disabilities in the private sector. Employers are offered a choice: create jobs or pay a targeted contribution to support the employment of such persons.

This is stated in bill No. 5344-d “On amendments to certain laws of Ukraine to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities to work”, adopted by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine on January 15, 2025. The document was supported by a total of 228 people’s deputies. The law provides for several key innovations designed to increase the number of jobs for people with disabilities, create conditions for their adaptation in the workplace and expand opportunities for social entrepreneurship. According to the new rules, all employers - both private and public - must provide a certain percentage of jobs for people with disabilities:.

If the employer is unable to create jobs for persons with disabilities (for example, due to a high level of production risks or the specific nature of the activity), he can pay a targeted contribution to a special fund. The funds raised will be used to finance support and employment programs for people with disabilities, as well as to create workplaces that take into account their needs.. The law provides for a set of measures aimed at encouraging employers to create jobs for persons with disabilities:.

The new law opens up additional opportunities for the development of social entrepreneurship. In particular, compensation and benefits can be received not only by enterprises established by public organizations of persons with disabilities, but also by any companies that fulfill established quotas for the employment of such persons. It is also possible to reduce the target contribution by purchasing goods and services from enterprises that create jobs for people with disabilities. It is planned that after the entry into force of this law, the level of employment among persons with disabilities will increase significantly.

According to European practice, more than 50% of people with disabilities in EU countries are employed.

In Ukraine, this figure is still about 16%. The adopted law should bring Ukraine closer to European standards in the field of inclusion.

In addition, the new norms will allow people with disabilities to get work not only in private companies, but also in government agencies, which will increase their social inclusion and economic independence.