The Ministry of Social Policy is expanding opportunities for creating and improving jobs for people with disabilities

The government is expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities. In particular, the system of administrative and economic sanctions for non-compliance with the quota of jobs for employing persons with disabilities is being improved.

Additionally, the possibility of using funds from administrative and economic sanctions paid by employers is being expanded to develop a barrier-free labor market, specifically for creating or equipping jobs for persons with disabilities.

The corresponding changes were initiated by the Ministry of Social Policy in a resolution adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers.

"This will transform the sanction system from merely a control tool into a resource for developing an inclusive labor market. Every hryvnia from fines should work toward creating new opportunities — both for people with disabilities and for employers willing to implement inclusive practices," noted Volodymyr Vasylenko, Deputy Minister of Social Policy of Ukraine.

Key innovations:

• Optimization of the administrative and economic sanctions calculation mechanism

Previously, employers could face incorrect fine calculations if employee data changed. Now, if data in the State Register of Compulsory State Social Insurance changes by March 31, the Social Protection Fund for Persons with Disabilities will automatically recalculate the sanction amount and send an updated calculation to the employer by June 10. This will prevent misunderstandings and simplify interactions with employers.

• Targeted use of fine revenues

From now on, funds can be allocated to measures promoting the employment of persons with disabilities:

• Technical equipment or adaptation of workplaces for people with disabilities: special furniture, equipment, etc.;
• Creation of new specialized jobs;
• Production of specialized training materials: literature and audio materials for training people with disabilities.

The implementation of this resolution will enhance transparency in mechanisms supporting the employment of people with disabilities and make state policy in this area more effective and fair.

It should be noted that, according to the law developed by the Ministry of Social Policy and adopted, new rules for employing persons with disabilities will come into effect in Ukraine starting in 2026. The law fundamentally changes approaches to supporting both people with disabilities seeking employment and employers. In particular, employers will have a choice: to employ a person with a disability and, if necessary, equip their workplace, or to pay a targeted contribution to the Social Protection Fund for Persons with Disabilities.