On November 14, together with Regioplan, we presented the findings of our research into the position of Ukrainian newcomers in the labor market during the annual State of the Art conference of the Ministry of Justice and Security.
Three research teams
We combined the strengths of three research teams, together with the Opora Foundation, Verwey Jonker Institute, and the WODC, all of which have conducted research on this topic from different perspectives. Nevertheless, there are also insights that emerge strongly in all three studies.
With thanks to: Annemieke Mack, Job Velseboer, Mieke Maliepaard, Maria Shaidrova, Kasper Otten, Dorien Marres, Devon Dekkers.
Long-term outlook for Ukrainian newcomers
One of these insights is the importance of a long-term perspective for Ukrainian newcomers when it comes to their right of residence in the Netherlands. It is still unclear what will happen after the European Temporary Protection Directive, which currently runs until March 4, 2025, expires. Not only does this cause a great deal of uncertainty and stress for Ukrainian newcomers themselves, it also constitutes an obstacle to finding suitable work.
Condition of suitable work
At present, 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 those who have found a suitable job that they would like to continue working in on a long-term basis, uncertainty about their status is an obstacle. Employers are reluctant to offer people long-term or permanent contracts.
"I have discussed this openly with my employer," says 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 on longer, but they don't dare to because of the uncertainty about my rights."
There is a lot of discussion at the policy level about what is needed to guide people toward suitable work. It is important not to lose sight of the fact that a secure, stable foundation is essential for this.
Reports
- We conducted the Participating in the Netherlands study together with Regioplan on behalf of the Gak Institute. The report containing all the findings will be published in early 2024.
- Together with NewBees, we conducted action research among 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.
