For employers struggling with rising staff shortages, motivated refugees who are eager to get started in the Netherlands are a valuable addition. Offering opportunities to these talents is of great social value and contributes to a stronger CSR policy. Since the amendment of the Civic Integration Act in 2022, municipalities are striving to ensure that refugees can already gain access to the labour market whilst integrating. Working is a good way to integrate, because it offers structure and opportunities for advancement. Moreover, working with refugees can contribute to an inclusive organisational working culture. Apart from the social added value, there is also business added value for your company.
Inclusive work environment
Employees with a background as refugee contribute to more diversity in the Dutch labour market and within a team. Companies can benefit from this: more diverse viewpoints and complementary solutions emerge within diverse teams. In a society that welcomes diverse cultures, rich cultural knowledge can open doors to new markets and target groups. Even in sectors where miscommunication can often occur because of cultural differences (or language barriers), for example within healthcare, the knowledge of an employee with a background as refugee can be of high value. All of this on the condition that proper guidance is in place and a safe inclusive work environment is provided.
Positive company reputation
An inclusive work environment enhances a company's reputation by valuing equal opportunities. A positive reputation makes a company more attractive to job seekers, its own employees and customers. An employer's social commitment and a good DE & I (Diversity and Inclusion) policy is becoming increasingly important in finding a job. For example, you have the PSO ladder - Performance Social Entrepreneurship - a quality label that looks at participation, working conditions and working conditions of vulnerable groups, such as status holders within the labour market.
