At this year's White Cane Day on October 15th, 2021, the important topic of "More inclusion in the labour market" was addressed by the Austrian Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted (BSVÖ). Blind and visually impaired people have always faced great challenges in the job market. In addition, the Corona crisis caused the situation to worsen drastically.
Work is an essential component for a self-determined life. The foundation for self-determination through fair working conditions and pay is an open and inclusive labour market. However, barriers to entry, lack of accessibility and prejudiced selection criteria often make equal opportunities in the labour market impossible. In order to facilitate integration into the primary labour market, BSVÖ has been campaigning for decades and is still actively advocating for the freest possible choice of occupation, equal and fair opportunities on the job market and a fulfilling work situation; factors that should enable blind and visually impaired people to lead a self-determined life with equal opportunities.
Dr. Markus Wolf, President of the Austrian Federation of the Blind and Partially Sighted Austria emphasizes: "Blind and visually impaired people are very motivated if you just give them a fair chance. In recent years, many professions have also become accessible to blind and visually impaired people. We will keep working on further opportunities for people with disabilities in the labour market!"