EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

a) Persons with Disabilities (PWD) have been left behind in the digital economy, despite digital technologies that offer transformative opportunities by reducing barriers to workforce participation and enhancing access to entrepreneurship.

b) This policy brief highlights several ways that digital technology, such as artificial intelligence (AI), assistive technology, and remote working tools, might be leveraged to increase opportunities for PWD.

c) Implementation of these technologies should support inclusive hiring practices and promote disability-led entrepreneurship, empowering PWD to compete more equally in the market. 

d) This brief identifies how international and regional frameworks can help ensure that digital technologies promote fair, inclusive, and secure opportunities for PWD.

RECOMMENDATIONS

This brief recommends that ASEAN consider developing polices to:
● Bridge the digital divide faced by PWD in ASEAN.
● Establish reasonable accommodation regulations for information and communication technology (ICT).
● Promote inclusive procurement initiatives.
● Create support networks and partnerships for employers.
● Provide financial support and grants to employers.
● Expand vocational training and skills development for PWD.