From ‘refugee crisis’ to job engine
In its latest study commissioned by the Tent Partnership for Refugees, DIW Econ analyses the challenges and effects of integrating refugees into the German labour market. To examine this topic, 100 medium-sized and large companies with previous experience in integrating refugees following 2015 were surveyed, alongside qualitative interviews conducted with entrepreneurs.
In practice, hiring refugees has differing effects. While companies did report an increase in workforce satisfaction, better positioning as an attractive employer, and positive corporate developments, for many companies, however, the processes involved in hiring refugees pose a risk. Challenges include hurdles in the hiring process itself, lack of language skills, and unrecognised qualifications.
As Germany prepares to integrate refugees from Ukraine, Afghanistan and other crisis zones worldwide, this report serves as a practical guide for companies looking to integrate refugees into their workforces. “Every company can benefit; the majority of surveyed companies view the hiring of refugees positively,” reports DIW Econ Consultant Anne-Christin Winkler, “Nearly nine out of ten companies plan to continue hiring refugees in the future.”
Which government support measures have played an essential role in the integration of refugees is subject of the current DIW Weekly Report by DIW Econ in cooperation with Prof. Dr. Alexander S. Kritikos:
DIW Weekly Report 19/20 / 2022
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