By Abbas Nazil
Türkiye has increased the number of persons with disabilities employed in the public sector from 5,777 in 2002 to 82,880 in 2026, as the government strengthens policies aimed at improving social inclusion, economic participation and resilience among vulnerable groups increasingly exposed to the impacts of climate change.
Data released by the Ministry of Family and Social Services showed that the rise in employment followed years of targeted reforms designed to improve accessibility, rehabilitation, workplace inclusion and equal opportunities for citizens living with disabilities.
The expansion comes at a time when climate change is intensifying social and economic inequalities globally, with persons with disabilities often facing higher risks during heatwaves, floods, droughts, disasters and other environmental emergencies due to barriers in mobility, communication, healthcare access and employment opportunities.
Officials said Türkiye’s employment policies are helping to reduce those vulnerabilities by creating more stable livelihoods and improving the participation of disabled citizens in public life.
A major milestone in the country’s disability inclusion efforts came in 2012 with the introduction of the Disabled Public Personnel Selection Examination, known as EKPSS, which allows disabled applicants to secure positions in public institutions according to their educational qualifications and abilities.
Under the system, the Ministry of Family and Social Services pays examination fees for applicants, while candidates must possess a disability rating of at least 40% to qualify for participation.
Authorities noted that the examination system has significantly widened access to government jobs for thousands of disabled individuals who previously struggled to enter the labour market.
Experts say inclusive employment is increasingly being recognised worldwide as an important climate adaptation strategy because stable jobs help vulnerable populations better withstand economic shocks caused by climate-related disruptions.
The ministry also continues to expand the “Protected Workplace Model,” an initiative designed for individuals with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities who encounter difficulties integrating into conventional workplaces.
The programme provides specially adapted working environments where disabled employees can engage in productive activities, gain financial independence and improve social confidence.
Government wage incentives are also provided for every disabled employee working within protected workplaces, encouraging employers to create more inclusive environments.
Advocates believe such measures are essential as climate change continues to place additional pressure on already marginalised communities.
According to global disability rights organisations, persons with disabilities are often excluded from emergency planning, climate response strategies and green employment opportunities despite being among the groups most affected by environmental crises.
Türkiye’s growing focus on disability-inclusive employment and social protection is therefore being viewed as part of broader efforts to strengthen resilience and social sustainability while ensuring that no group is left behind in the face of climate and economic challenges.
The Ministry of Family and Social Services said it would continue implementing programmes that support accessibility, inclusion and equal participation for disabled citizens across different sectors of society.
