WASHINGTON DC (ILO News) – An ILO business network that promotes disability policies in the workplace has expanded its reach, with the inclusion of information technology company DXC Technology, and Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD) – one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world.

The inclusion of these two multinational enterprises brings to 27 the number of companies who are now members of the ILO Global Business and Disability Network (GBDN). In joining the network, DXC Technology and MSD committed to implement the ten principles of the Global Business and Disability Charter, which guides companies in promoting more diverse workforces, including persons with disabilities.

“The business case for including persons with disabilities is increasingly recognized. Membership in the ILO Global Business and Disability Network helps companies to adopt effective disability inclusion policies and practices throughout their worldwide operations and branches,” said Deborah Greenfield ILO Deputy Director-General for Policy.

“We are honoured to join the ILO Global Business and Disability Network, take part in their best practice sharing, and advance the hiring, development and retention of people with disabilities,” said Celeste R. Warren, Chief Diversity Officer, MSD. “As a member of the GBDN, MSD leaders can be better equipped to champion disability inclusion, and have access to a broader talent pool of candidates with disabilities.”

Since the network was set up in 2010 it has supported the establishment of national business and disability networks in countries like Bangladesh and Indonesia, and will launch similar networks in India and China this year.

GBDN was also involved in the development of a guide for businesses on disability rights, which was launched by the ILO and the UN Global Compact in 2017.

A welcome ceremony for the two new members took place during a meeting in Washington DC on “Sustainable Employment of Persons with Disabilities Globally”, organized by the ILO, the United States Council for International Business (USCIB) and GBDN Vice-chair, IBM. Participants discussed business opportunities in a digitalized world economy and good practices in addressing companies’ skills gaps, including disability-inclusive and accessible training and employment practices.

DXC Technology and MSD also exchanged ideas with other business leaders about approaches to promote the employment of persons with disabilities in emerging economies in which these companies have a presence.