Lived Employment Experiences of Persons with Physical Disabilities in Nepal: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

The study collates preliminary evidence of perceived enablers, barriers, and solutions in employment participation in Nepal through the experiences of persons with physical disabilities. A qualitative study was conducted in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, with 12 face-to-face semi-structured interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and validated before being analysed thematically. The study followed the COREQ checklist while reporting the results. Thirteen themes were derived and grouped into enablers, barriers, and solutions in employment participation. Results demonstrate that over-protective behaviour from family members, discrimination by employers in recruitment, and continuance in employment were barriers. Childhood education, family support, priority during the recruitment process to encourage employment participation, and disability-friendly policies are the key to enabling employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.