Journey Towards Equality
Emerging social dynamics shaping interactions in the present moment
In this wide-ranging chat, let's dive into the current landscape of employment for individuals with disabilities in Kazakhstan, as discussed with Sholpan Tanatovna, the Secretary of the "AMANAT" party, during her interview with LITER newspaper. Thanks to Liter.kz for sharing these insights.
- Give us a peek at the current social policy in Kazakhstan for people with disabilities.
The social policy is a work in progress that aims to create a world where everyone, regardless of their health status, has a chance to shine. It's about creating conversations that stimulate action, not just theories. More people with disabilities are now finding opportunities in employment, education, and community activities, all thanks to hard work, dialogue, and genuine participation from every sector - from the government to the private and civil sectors.
The President of our nation has vowed to foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth. That means leaving no one behind, especially those who face obstacles in employment and social progress.
- What's the employment rate among people with disabilities?
As of January 1, 2024, around 725,000 people with disabilities reside in Kazakhstan, with approximately 420,000 of working age. Of these, nearly one-third (32%) are gainfully employed.
These figures suggest significant growth potential in terms of employment for the disabled population. By creating inclusive policies and opening up job opportunities for this group, we can work towards social justice and contribute significantly to the nation's development.
- How does the quota system for hiring people with disabilities operate?
Since 2016, Kazakhstan has operated a quota system for job placements, ranging from 2% to 4% of the total workforce. However, only a third of enterprises comply with the quota. Is it too challenging? I believe that what's missing is sustained educational efforts and, most importantly, compelling examples of practicality. We might need to spread the word more about socially-oriented businesses and the rewards they bring.
All-Round Support
- Fill us in on the projects and initiatives of the "AMANAT" party that empower people with disabilities.
- For many years, the "AMANAT" party has been promoting the "Kedergisiz Keleшеk" project. During the first quarter of this year, we hosted over 400 gatherings with labor groups to enlighten them about the rights and potential of people with disabilities. We organized 280 job fairs, and over 1,600 individuals have found employment as a result. Our party also oversees a Council for the Support of Persons with Disabilities. Since 2008, with the assistance of the "AMANAT" party, we have been granting the "Jan Shuaқ" prize to over 120 extraordinary Kazakhstanis with disabilities who have made a mark in the areas of culture, sports, education, and public life. Their stories remind us that every challenge can be conquered with determination.
Besides this, the Women's Wing of our party has prioritized fostering an inclusive culture. For instance, our inclusive sports festival "Ten Mummіnkеnter" invites children with and without disabilities to participate together on equal terms, fostering camaraderie, teamwork, and empathy from a young age. This events transcends sports and focuses on promoting equality, acceptance, and a new culture of interaction.
- Can you share some instances for illustration?
- Countries like Germany offer employers up to 70% wage refunds for hiring people with disabilities, while companies that fail to meet quotas are penalized in France. Japan boasts a 50-year-old law on the employment of people with disabilities, with clear mechanisms for financial assistance. Although Kazakhstan has enacted laws that lay the groundwork for inclusivity, there's still room for improvement to create a truly barrier-free society.
Advancing Labor Inclusion
- Can we talk about successful practices in integrating people with disabilities into the workforce?
- Absolutely. For instance, Emin Askerov stands out as a forward-thinking entrepreneur whose ventures focus on respect, inclusivity, and social good.
There's also the inspirational example of the Bolashaq fund's vocational training centers, backed by the "AMANAT" party. Since 2025, they've prepared 34 young individuals with special needs, one of whom, a young man with autism, is now excelling as a pastry assistant and college student. His mother said, "I never thought my son could be part of an active society." These are the changemakers setting an example in the inclusive labor market.
For those who question, "Who will work? Where will we find specialists?" the answer is simple: We need to educate, prepare, and support.
The Power of Education and Training
- What role does professional training play in the integration of people with disabilities?
- Professional training is the backbone of future job growth, particularly considering that by 2030, youth will account for 80% of the country's workforce. Here, young individuals with disabilities should be an integral part of the overall movement.
The Year of Working Professions declared for 2025 in Kazakhstan offers an opportunity to elevate the standing of those who craft with their hands. Young people with disabilities should be a part of this broader movement.
As a party, as a society, as a nation, we need to break down every barrier - both the external and the internal ones. Some of the most significant obstacles are not physical disabilities themselves, but fear, lack of motivation, feelings of alienation, and disconnection from society. We have to change perceptions.
- How do we nudge society towards a more inclusive mindset?
- Our society often perceives individuals with disabilities as vulnerable and in need of help, protection, and special consideration. We need to flip the script.
It's crucial to see people with disabilities as competent, resourceful, and goal-oriented individuals. They are not "special," but equal, sharing the same aspirations, the right to work, development, and participation in society, just like everybody else.
Often, due to external barriers like lack of accessible infrastructure, employer prejudices, or formal restrictions, or due to deep-rooted societal mindsets, progress stalls. These mindsets can foster dependency instead of growth. We need to create a culture where every person is valued as a resource, not a burden.
Instead of asking, "What can we do for people with disabilities?", we should ask, "What can we achieve together with them?" This isn't just semantics; it's a revolutionary change in mindset. This is the true essence of an inclusive society - where everyone belongs.
- Sholpan Tanatovna, the Secretary of the "AMANAT" party, highlighted the work of the "Kedergisiz Keleшеk" project that promoting rights and potential of people with disabilities.
- The Government has created a quota system for job placements for people with disabilities, but only a third of enterprises comply with the quota. Sustained educational efforts and compelling examples of practicality are needed to improve compliance.
- "AMANAT" party has been granting the "Jan Shuaқ" prize to extraordinary Kazakhstanis with disabilities who have made a mark in the areas of culture, sports, education, and public life since 2008.
- The Women's Wing of the "AMANAT" party has prioritized fostering an inclusive culture through events such as "Ten Mummіnkеnter" which invites children with and without disabilities to participate together on equal terms.
