Center for Disability and Integration (CDI-HSG)

The Center for Disability and Integration (CDI-HSG) is an interdisciplinary research center that conducts research on the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace and related topics. In addition to the main focus on inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace, other related areas are also being pursued today. In doing so, the CDI-HSG strives to meet the increasing complexity of the work environment resulting from the influences of digitalization and overarching social changes. The lacking inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace yiels negative consequences for the affected individuals, companies and the entire economy. The number of people with disabilities has increased significantly in all industrialized countries in recent decades. 14 percent of the working age population have a disability (OECD, Transforming Disability into Ability, 2003). However, only 40 percent of people with disabilities are in employment (OECD, Sickness, Disability and Work, 2009). Due to the demographic change, the number of potential employees will also decline in the upcoming years. Nevertheless, qualified employees with disabilities are still seriously underrepresented in companies. The exclusion from the labor market poses a considerable challenge for social services. The funding of social security systems also places a burden on our economy and society. The lack of inclusion creates a climate of dissatisfaction among people with disabilities, gradually reducing their performance and potential capabilities. Given this situation, the CDI-HSG is concerned with the inclusion of people with disabilities in the workplace, the society and the economy.