The protection provided by the CPRD for persons with schizophrenia in the field of employment – from a Polish perspective

Abstract

The rights of persons with schizophrenia are protected by the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, not only because schizophrenia fulfills the legal definition of disability resulting from the CRPD, but also because it fits with the definition described in other acts of international law. The Polish legislator also perceives schizophrenia as a disability. The CRPD has many provisions connected with the employment of persons with schizophrenia. The most relevant provisions which have influence on this case are the general principle of nondiscrimination, the right to participate in social-life, the right to rehabilitation, the awareness-raising obligation of the state, equal protection of the benefits of the law, equality in employment and the prohibition of discrimination in trade unions. Poland, as a party to this convention, is obligated to implement its provisions. In fact, Poland has implemented the basic provisions of this treaty, but more specific provisions encounter difficulties, especially in awareness-raising and in professional activation.