Reasonable Accommodation

While positive action to compensate for the disadvantages of particular groups is optional, accommodating the needs of people with disabilities is a compulsory part of the directive on equality in employment. The reason is the same as the argument for positive action, only stronger. Without measures to accommodate their needs, people with disabilities could be so disadvantaged that they are unable to work at all.

The directive, therefore, requires employers throughout the EU to take whatever steps are ‘reasonable’ to enable people with disabilities to work, advance in their careers and participate in training, so long as this does not involve excessive financial and other costs.