Implementation of the Disability Employment Promotion Policy in Bangkok Metropolitan Administration: Employment of Persons with Disabilities

Abstract

            This research aimed to explore the problems and obstacles in implementing the policy promoting employment of persons with disabilities within agencies of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). A qualitative research approach was employed. The primary data were obtained from 30 key informants—officials from district offices in the Southern Bangkok administrative cluster—through document analysis and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

            The findings indicate that key problems include unclear policy directives, lack of relevant experience among staff, administrative imbalances, and low acceptance of persons with disabilities. Additional obstacles identified were negative attitudes of staff, disability-related functional limitations, self-perceptions of persons with disabilities, and communication barriers. The study proposes three main recommendations: (1) developing clear operational guidelines for disability employment, (2) organizing training to enhance staff understanding of disability, and (3) establishing a mentoring or support mechanism to promote inclusive employment practices in public agencies.