Investigation of the challenges Ukrainian, Afghan, and Somali refugees and immigrants face in accessing the labour market in Norway

Abstract

(1) Background: In recent times, there has been increased attention on issues faced by refugees and immigrants in accessing the labour markets of their host countries. Most of these people face numerous challenges. The current study sought to examine the experiences refugees and immigrants face in interacting with Norway’s labour market; with the aim of identifying the main barriers that hinder their access to this market. The study used a sample of Ukrainian, Afghan, and Somali refugees to compare their experiences with regard to interaction with the Norwegian labour sector. (2) Methods: data for the study was collected through qualitative semi-structured interviews with 15 respondents residing in Bergen, Norway. Five respondents from each country: Afghanistan, Somalia, and Ukraine. Data was analysed using the Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) methodology which aims to examine how individuals make sense of important experiences in their lives. (3) Findings/ Results: The findings showed that refugees and immigrants from the three countries faced discrimination in accessing the labour market based on factors such as language proficiency, accent, name, appearance, religion/culture, nationality, education, gender, age, and family status. While all groups experienced discrimination based on education, language proficiency, accent, nationality, gender, and age; Ukrainians fared better in terms of appearance, name, religion/culture, and family status than Afghans and Somalis. Language proficiency and education were perceived as crucial factors in accessing the Norwegian labour market. Programs and activities run by the government and other humanitarian organizations are also shown to be crucial in helping immigrants and refugees integrate into Norway’s labour market. (4) Conclusions: The findings of the study highlight that there are structural and institutional factors that result in refugees and immigrants being discriminated against in their interaction with Norway’s labour market. From this and based on the institutional theory, the study recommends that it is necessary to disrupt the existing practices and norms and in so doing establish new institutional logics that are more welcoming and accepting for the immigrants and refugees. The specific recommendations are: Enhance language training efforts for refugees and immigrants; offer refugees and immigrants formal education; educate the general public on the importance of diversity and inclusivity; and introduce pertinent integration policy reforms Keywords: refugees and immigrants; integration, Norwegian labour market; interpretative phenomenological analysis; subjective experiences.