IISES International Academic Conference, Prague

UNPACKING DECENT WORK: A WORK-IN-PROGRESS EXPLORATION OF THE LIVED REALITIES OF EMPLOYED PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN A SOUTH AFRICAN TOWNSHIP

CHRISTEL MARAIS, THEMBA JOHN ZWANE

Abstract:

Employment is a fundamental right and a crucial driver of individual and societal well-being. The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 8 emphasises inclusive economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for everyone. Despite South Africa's progress in legislation aimed at addressing inequalities, individuals with disabilities still face persistent challenges, including workplace discrimination, insufficient physical accessibility, and limited chances for career progression. This paper reports on an ongoing study of the lived realities of employed individuals with disabilities in a South African township, examined through the lens of the International Labour Organisation’s Decent Work Agenda. Guided by the Psychology of Working Theory, this qualitative, interpretivist investigation adopts a phenomenological approach to explore the subjective experiences of individuals with disabilities. Using purposive snowball sampling, life history interviews capture participants' narratives. Data will be analysed using thematic content analysis, supported by Tesch’s eight-step framework, to ensure rigorous interpretation. Key objectives include understanding how individuals navigate employment, social welfare, and communication within their community while interpreting the stated Decent Work Agenda’s relevance to their lived experiences. Ethical considerations such as informed consent, participant confidentiality, and compliance with the Protection of Personal Information Act guide every aspect of this engagement. The findings aim to inform policy reforms, enhance workplace accessibility, and raise awareness about this marginalised group's socioeconomic and psychological challenges. Fundamentally, the study proposes contributing to a more inclusionary employment landscape and promoting understanding of the SDG 2030 vision of equitable and sustainable development within South Africa’s labour force.

Keywords: ILO Decent Work Agenda, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 8, Social Welfare, Workplace Accessibility, Disability in the Workplace.