Factors that Promote and Hinder the (Labour Market) Integration of Women with a Refugee Background. Findings from a Practice-Oriented Case Study

The study examines which factors promote or hinder the labour market integration of women with a refugee background. It also focuses on several practical projects run by ABZ*AUSTRIA, the experiences from which were systematically analysed in order to identify specific factors contributing to successful integration. To this end, the perspectives of refugee women from Syria, Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq, as well as those of counsellors, trainers and companies, were taken into account. The findings show that, in particular, a good command of German, the recognition of qualifications, individual counselling and targeted training programmes facilitate entry into the labour market. At the same time, a lack of childcare, lengthy recognition procedures, discrimination and traditional gender role expectations often present major obstacles. The study makes it clear that successful labour market integration goes far beyond mere job placement and requires holistic support services. Measures that empower women, highlight their skills and provide them with individualised support on their career paths are particularly effective. The findings provide valuable insights for the further development of effective integration programmes and demonstrate how practical knowledge can be successfully translated into recommendations for policymakers and labour market stakeholders.

The lead author of the study is Tamara Dorner from ABZ*AUSTRIA; Nadja Bergmann from L&R Sozialforschung contributed her academic expertise to the preparation of the study, assisted with the case studies and co-authored relevant sections of the study.