Pathways into the labor market of young people with disabilities in Switzerland and Luxembourg

The research project analyzes the situation of young people with disabilities during their transition to adulthood, with a particular focus on their transition from school to work.

Research has shown that young people with disabilities are at particularly high risk of experiencing a difficult transition to work life and often face greater challenges than their peers without disabilities. However, there is limited research on the dynamics at play during this phase.

To better understand the causes and consequences of disability-related inequality, the project pursues a multi-method approach. It combines quantitative and qualitative research methods and investigates the transitions from school to work from different perspectives—of young people themselves, of employers, and of psychosocial or (special) educational professionals.  

Through the lens of the life course approach, biographical interviews are conducted with young people with disabilities right before, during, or after their transition to the working world. 

Employers are surveyed using a quantitative questionnaire with an integrated factorial survey to explore their hiring intentions and attitudes towards disability. In addition, interviews with psychosocial or (special) education professionals will provide insights into the support provided during the transition to work. 

What factors facilitate or hinder the successful entry of young people with disabilities into the labor market
in Switzerlang and Luxembourg?  

The research findings will provide valuable insights into the institutional, organizational, and individual conditions relevant to the labor market integration and subjective well-being of young people with disabilities. 

To ensure the highest quality and continuous evaluation, the project is supported by a project advisory board including colleagues from academia and members of self-advocacy organizations.

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Laufzeit: 10/2023 — 06/2026