Journey of 'hope' : refugees in the Maltese labour market

Abstract

This research aimed to identify the refugees' labour market participation, the barriers they encounter when looking for work, the conditions of work they are being offered and the employers' perceptions on these immigrants. Research was conducted both with employers (fifty-four questionnaire respondents) and refugees (four semi-structured interviews), to try to capture a clear picture of the situation in Malta from both sides. The results indicate that the skills and qualifications that refugees may have are not recognised by Maltese employers. Additionally, refugees tend to be placed in low positions, where no particular skills are required. It was also identified that they face several barriers like linguistic, cultural differences and xenophobia/prejudices, which sometimes lead to exploitation. The research concludes by making recommendations so as to try to facilitate the entry of refugees to the labour market and for a better understanding of these minorities.