The Netherlands has launched an initiative aimed at promoting the integration of refugee status holders by offering immediate paid jobs to foreigners settling in the communities after leaving the asylum reception centres. This trial has been launched in three large cities and some regional municipalities, with the aim of accelerating the path to employment for status holders.
The initiative was officially launched on January 29th in the presence of the Dutch Minister of Social Affairs and Employment and Deputy Prime Minister Van Gennip, local authorities, employers, and status holders. The main objective of the initiative is to provide job opportunities to refugee status holders, allowing them to support themselves and integrate into society.
Cities and regional municipalities such as Amsterdam, Eindhoven, Rotterdam, Meijerstad, Vught, Boxtel, Nuenen, and the labour market region of Helmond de Peel are adopting various strategies to create entry-level job opportunities for refugee status holders. The Minister emphasized the importance of working as a means for status holders to build an independent existence, learn the language, and contribute to society.
The status holders’ employment initiatives in these municipalities will be monitored and evaluated throughout 2024, with the collected data being shared with other municipalities to encourage similar initiatives across the country. The immediate employment of refugee status holders upon settling in the Netherlands is expected to have a significant impact on the integration process, allowing them to strengthen their position in the job market and ultimately secure employment in the country.
The Netherlands is one of the EU countries that receive a high number of asylum applications each year, and those whose applications are approved are issued permits to reside and work in the country for a certain period. The EUAA will also support the asylum process in the Netherlands starting February 1 of this year, providing around 20 staff members to help with the processing of applications filed by Syrian asylum seekers mainly. This initiative demonstrates the Netherlands’ commitment to integrating refugees and offering them opportunities for a better future.
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