Empowering Disabled Workers: Analyzing Indonesia's Return to Work Policy for Inclusive Employment

Disability rights and inclusion have gained significant attention in recent decades. This study focuses on Indonesia's Return to Work (RTW) policy, initiated in 2015 and managed by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, aimed at supporting individuals who have experienced workplace-related disabilities and injuries. While previous research has primarily explored the policy's aspects, this paper delves into the experiences of RTW beneficiaries, aiming to inform policymaking and foster a more comprehensive approach. Qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews with key informants and a comprehensive desk study, were employed to gain a holistic understanding of the Return- to-Work policy's implementation in Indonesia as a means of promoting inclusive employment and economic independence for people with disabilities. Our research reveals that the Return-to-Work policy significantly facilitates the reintegration of beneficiaries into the labor force, despite persisting challenges. Two main themes emerged from the experiences of RTW beneficiaries: the benefits and challenges associated with the program. Beneficiaries are entitled to the Employment Injury Security Program, which includes the Return-to-Work initiative under the BPJS Ketenagakerjaan scheme. However, challenges arise due to employer commitment issues and difficulties in adapting the work environment and finding suitable positions for beneficiaries within companies.