The compatibility of disability pensions with employment was the central theme of a session of the Social and Participation Council (CSiP), which brought together legal experts, representatives of organisations and professionals from the Guttmann Hospital for Neurorehabilitation to address one of the main challenges regarding the rights of people with disabilities.

The session was attended by Ricardo Esteban Legarreta, Professor of Labour Law and Dean of the Faculty of Law at the UAB; Miguel Arenas Gómez, a lecturer at the UOC, as well as representatives from most of the associations that form part of the Social Council, including Antonio Reyes, president of Aspaym Catalunya; and Montse Font, president of ASEM Catalunya, who analysed and shared their views on the legal, social and personal implications of the current framework.

During the discussions, it became clear that the restrictive interpretation of the compatibility between receiving a pension and working represents, in the words of the participants, “a step backwards in terms of rights”, as it limits the employment opportunities of people with severe disabilities.

The speakers emphasised that many people with disabilities can pursue professional careers if they have the right support, and that working is key to their independence, social inclusion and well-being. In this regard, the need to move beyond models focused on limitations and towards an approach based on capabilities and reasonable adjustments was emphasised.

Warning was also given about the impact the current situation may have on people’s lives, as “the fear of losing one’s pension” can discourage people from entering the labour market and create legal uncertainty.

The debate revealed a broad consensus on the need to push for legislative reform that clarifies the regulatory framework, updates the concepts of disability, and ensures compatibility between pensions and employment, in line with international human rights standards.

The session concluded with a call to move towards a fairer and more inclusive model that guarantees the right to work, economic security and the full social participation of people with disabilities