Empowering Employability for a Sustainable Future: How HR Practices Support Workers with Disabilities in the Public Sector in the Netherlands

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) emphasize inclusive economic growth (SDG 8) and reduced inequalities (SDG 10), including equal employment opportunities for workers with disabilities (WWDs). Despite international and national efforts, WWDs still face barriers to labor market participation. Public sector organizations are expected to lead in inclusive HRM but often lag behind in employing WWDs, raising concerns about their ability to contribute to the SDGs. Using Social Exchange Theory and Self Determination Theory, we examine how three HR practices of training and development, workplace accommodations, and establishing clear expectations affect the employability of 313 WWDs in a Dutch public sector organization. Survey data were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and regression-based mediation analysis. Findings show that HR practices primarily impact employability mediated through basic psychological needs satisfaction, with limited direct effects. This study offers empirical insights on how inclusive HRM in the public sector can advance the SDGs.