We found a match
Your institution may have access to this item. Find your institution then sign in to continue.
- Title
Exploring Labour Integration Challenges for Ukrainians in Slovakia.
- Authors
Papcunová, Jana; Ďurbisová, Simona; Mukhina, Anna
- Abstract
Employment plays a crucial role in the integration of individuals who have fled the war in Ukraine. From both a financial and psychological standpoint, the opportunity to work is essential in preventing dependence on welfare and fostering a sense of self-realization. Following the conflict in Ukraine, over a million people have crossed the border, with many heading to the region around the capital Bratislava. A large number have also chosen to stay closer to the border, making their way to the second largest city in Slovakia, Košice. There are currently an estimated 6,000 Ukrainians, primarily women, who have found residence in Košice. The aim of this research was to use qualitative methods to explore the needs and barriers in the labour market of those who came to Košice after the outbreak of war (involuntary migrants) and those who have been working in Košice for a longer period (voluntary migrants). Three focus groups were carried out in a sample of 26 respondents (Nfemale= 18, age range = 18-71 years, length of stay in Košice 1 month - 7 years). Language and age barriers, limited job opportunities, discrimination and health difficulties emerged as key themes from the discussions with the involuntary migrants. In general, language proficiency posed a significant challenge, hindering stable employment for the participants. Discrimination and hatred were also reported, along with experiences of exploitation and dismissal. Discussions with the voluntary migrants revealed intense labour market competition, bureaucratic hurdles, discrimination and a lack of information as being the key areas of concern. Enhanced support services at local and national levels, a well-coordinated national system of integration, as well as raising awareness about hate crimes, discrimination and violence against women and girls among foreigners are crucial for facilitating the integration of Ukrainians into society. The arrival of Ukrainian migrants has shed light on pre-existing employment challenges in Košice which not only affect migrants but the local population as well.
- Subjects
KOSICE (Slovakia); SLOVAKIA; UKRAINE; SEX discrimination against women; VIOLENCE against women; CONSCIOUSNESS raising; UKRAINIANS; RUSSIA-Ukraine Conflict, 2014-; LABOR market
- Publication
Individual & Society / Clovek a Spolocnost, 2023, Vol 26, Issue 2, p1
- ISSN
1335-3608
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.31577/cas.2023.02.618