Comprehensive efforts by Public Employment Services in 2024 to integrate displaced Ukrainians into the workforce

Public Employment Services are one of the main actors to help integrate displaced people from Ukraine in the labour market. To facilitate sharing of information and experience, the European Network of Public Employment Services is regularly collecting information from PES. This news item presents a summary of responses received to the survey carried out in the autumn 2024 which focused on services delivered by PES, funding, partnership and communication.

Most of PES deliver skills assessment, provide access to languages courses and vocational training

In 2024, Public Employment Services implemented a range of initiatives to support people displaced from Ukraine. For skills assessment, 17 out of 30 PES provided services aimed at evaluating and integrating the competencies of displaced individuals. Croatia, for example, offers a self-assessment questionnaire in Croatian and an online platform for jobseekers to explore educational programs that match their skills, facilitating a smooth transition into the workforce. Regarding qualification recognition, 9 PES directly offered services, while others collaborated with partners. Ireland’s national Information Centre (ENIC or ENIC-NARIC) initiative provides free services for the academic recognition of foreign qualifications based on the Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) National Framework of Qualifications, ensuring that displaced individuals are informed about relevant professional bodies for practicing regulated professions. Language courses were available from 24 PES, addressing a critical integration need. In Belgium, the Flemish PES (VDAB) offers job and language coaching, initially free for the first year, which supports Ukrainian refugees in overcoming language barriers to employment. Vocational training was offered by 23 PES, with varied focuses. Several countries focused on occupations facing labour shortages such as construction or transport. Lithuania implements subsidised employment measures and mobility support, providing financial assistance to both employees and employers to encourage vocational engagement.

Comprehensive services include childcare, entrepreneurship ‘s support and services to employers

In terms of childcare services, 11 PES provided support measures. The German PES, although not directly responsible for childcare, plays a supportive role by informing parents about local options and potentially covering part of childcare costs under certain conditions. Support for entrepreneurs was available through 18 PES, encouraging business startups. In Malta, the Business First initiative acts as a one-stop shop for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering comprehensive guidance and support to navigate business creation. Additionally, 17 PES offered various other services, such as translation and counselling with Russian or Ukrainian-speaking staff, to aid integration. In Ireland, the JobsIreland.ie portal provides job search assistance in Ukrainian and Russian, alongside employing staff fluent in these languages to improve communication and support. Specific services to companies hiring displaced Ukrainians were provided by 10 PES. In France, a special procedure was implemented until April 2024 to assist employers in hiring displaced Ukrainians, including marking vacancies and ensuring specific recruitment arrangements, such as language acquisition and skills development. Active Labour Market Policies (ALMPs) were reported by 17 PES, although typically part of broader schemes for all refugees or newcomers. In Czech Republic, Ukrainian people with temporary protection can  have access to various employment support contributions, such as wage cost coverage or regional mobility allowances. In terms of funding, 10 PES reporting using the European Social Fund + to support these efforts. Sweden, for instance, engages in ESF+ projects at the regional level, specifically targeting the Ukrainian population to enhance their integration.

Cooperation with partners remains essential 

PES contributions to partner-organized programs were detailed by 18 PES. In Poland, the Activation Program for Foreigners "Together We Can Do More" aimed to integrate foreigners, mainly Ukrainians, with the labour market. The program involved over 73,000 beneficiaries and was supported by various entities, including employers' organizations and NGOs, providing comprehensive support tailored to the needs of migrants. Communication strategies towards persons displaced and the PES ecosystem varied, with PES using reports, social media, and partner networks. In Finland, collaboration with the Finnish Broadcasting Company helped disseminate information widely, while Luxembourg used social media networks to reach broader audiences. Lastly, some PES highlighted innovative practices and new developments in the communication with customers. In Belgium-Wallonia, le Forem is involved in the MODA project that includes a free app (developed with partners) called FACT. This app aids jobseekers facing language barriers by providing translation tools and visual/audio content during training sessions with a focus on shortage occupations.