On November 14, together with Regioplan, we presented the insights from our research on the position of Ukrainian newcomers in the labor market, at the annual State of the Art conference of the Ministry of Justice and Security.
Three research teams
We joined the forces of three research teams, along with Opora Foundation, Verwey Jonker Institute and the WODC, all of whom have researched this topic from different perspectives. Yet there are insights that emerge strongly in all three studies.
Thanks to: Annemieke Mack, Job Velseboer, Mieke Maliepaard, Maria Shaidrova, Kasper Otten, Dorien Marres, Devon Dekkers.
Long-term perspective Ukrainian newcomers
One such insight is the importance of a long-term perspective for Ukrainian newcomers when it comes to their right of residence in the Netherlands. So far it is unclear what will happen after the end of the European Temporary Protection Directive, which now runs until March 4, 2025. Apart from causing a lot of uncertainty and stress for Ukrainian newcomers themselves, this is also an obstacle in the path to suitable employment.
Condition of suitable work
Currently, most newcomers from Ukraine work in flexible, part-time jobs that do not directly match their previous work experience, talents and ambitions for the future. For people who did find a suitable job in which they would like to work permanently, uncertainty about their status is an obstacle. Employers are reluctant to offer people long-term or indefinite contracts.
"I have discussed this openly with my employer" - indicates one of the people we spoke to. "The job suits my expertise and wishes well, I would like to continue and my employer would like to keep me longer but doesn't dare because of the uncertainty about my rights."
There are many conversations going on at the policy level about what it takes to guide people into appropriate employment. It is important here not to lose sight of the fact that a secure, stable base is the foundation for this.
Reports
- We conducted the study Meedoen in Nederland together with Regioplan commissioned by Instituut Gak. The report with all bundled insights will be published in early 2024.
- Together with NewBees, we conducted action research with 75 Ukrainian households. By supporting them, we learned lessons for the larger group of people from Ukraine and newcomers who do need to integrate. These insights will be shared in a report in early 2024.
