Europe Must Act Newsletter

Our report on Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Employment: People on the Move and the Labour Market

27.09.2024

Dear EMA members and friends,

This month we’re sharing our recent report Refugees, Asylum Seekers and Employment: People on the Move and the Labour Market. The report explores how access to decent work helps refugees and asylum seekers integrate into their new communities. More than just a source of income, employment brings independence, stability, a sense of purpose and can be good for mental health.

However, many refugees and asylum seekers face significant barriers to entering the job market, from legal and language obstacles to discrimination. This report takes a closer look at these challenges, highlighting the importance of creating fair opportunities while addressing the misconceptions often associated with refugees and employment.

Read our full report here.

- EMA Newsletter Team

The right to work is a fundamental right supported by a solid legal framework in the European Union. This framework includes the 1951 Refugee Convention and various EU directives that promote equal opportunities and non-discrimination in the labour market. These legal protections are crucial for ensuring that asylum seekers and refugees can access decent work, which is essential for integration. The right to work should be perceived not only as an economic issue but also as a matter of human rights and dignity.

Nevertheless, many still face significant barriers to employment. Lengthy waiting periods for work permits can leave individuals in limbo for months, preventing them from supporting themselves and their family or contributing to their communities. Language difficulties often hinder their ability to navigate the job market and communicate effectively. Additionally, many arrive with valuable skills and qualifications that are frequently unrecognised or undervalued.

Moreover, negative perceptions and discrimination can further complicate their access to work. While employers may be reluctant to hire individuals perceived as “other” due to prejudice, this lack of acceptance can also discourage people on the move from applying for jobs, leading to ongoing marginalisation within the community.

One great example of how inclusive job programs can make a difference is the Utrecht Refugee Launchpad in the Netherlands. This initiative helps connect refugees with members of the local community to create networks, improve social cohesion and provide employment support.

The program offers practical support for refugees and young people from the community, such as job training, language classes, and mentorship. This way, refugees can create networks in their community, learn the skills they need to find work and feel more comfortable in the job market.

By working with local businesses, the Launchpad also helps match refugees with jobs that suit their skills and interests. It also encourages teamwork between refugees and community members, creating a friendly atmosphere where everyone learns from each other.

The results have been positive, with many participants finding jobs and employers appreciating the fresh perspectives refugees bring to their teams.The project's success has been so significant that it will influence future approaches.

Programs like the Utrecht Refugee Launchpad show that when refugees receive the right support, they can really thrive and contribute to their new communities.

By understanding the challenges and recognising the rights of people on the move, we can advocate for more inclusive policies and practices that help them succeed in their new communities. We need to create clear pathways for legal employment, offer language programs, and ensure that foreign qualifications are recognised. These steps can empower refugees and asylum seekers to build better lives. Ultimately, fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding in local communities is crucial for breaking down barriers and creating a truly inclusive society.

To read the full report, visit our website.

Matar, directed by Hassan Akkad, follows the journey of refugees as they face the challenges of displacement. The short film, released in 2023, highlights the struggles of individuals seeking acceptance and belonging while addressing barriers to employment and integration. Through its powerful storytelling, Matar offers insights into the refugee experience and emphasises the importance of community support. 

Too busy to volunteer? Donate

Contribute to Europe Must Act's advocacy efforts by donating today!

Your donation will help us:

• Fund coordinators for our campaign projects;
  
• Train activists across Europe on effective advocacy techniques;
  
• Cover digital equipment and campaign-related expenses.
  
  

You can donate to our latest campaign here.

Our Routes to Relocation campaign aims to raise public awareness on the benefits of moving refugees from border areas to welcoming cities and communities where they can more easily integrate. Additionally, we are committed to providing education to local governments and authorities on the opportunities that migration presents and the available resources for supporting welcoming cities.

Do you have some time on your hands? Volunteer with us!

We continue to look for reliable, engaged volunteers who are passionate about protecting the rights of refugees and asylum seekers, and centering the voices of people on the move and/or with lived experience. We need people to support and develop our movement in various ways. In our central teams, we need people for:

• Social media platform maintaining and development (Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn);
• Researching alternatives to closed camps, and sustainable solutions to the current crisis;
• Advocacy work with our partners across Europe;
• Creating and editing audiovisual content for Raising Voices;
• Advising on diversity & inclusion;
• Developing our Press & Comms strategy and outreach;
• Advising and creating funding applications;
• Working with our Cities Must Act team to support our network of Chapters with planning their national and local campaigns, developing their social media presence, and researching local movements and political developments to ensure they are as effective as possible;
• Developing ideas and resources for Action Ideas/events with our Chapters, and working on creative ideas for raising awareness (eg art/music).
  
  

If any of the above or below sounds like something you want to do, contact us at onboardme@europemustact.org