Newcomers to the Flemish labour market are finding it easier to get a job, De Standaard reports on Thursday. While the gap with Belgian-born workers is narrowing, parity has not yet been reached, according to the Samenlevingsbarometer, an annual government survey on social diversity.
Over the past decade, the employment rate among non-EU migrants has increased from 46.4 per cent to 58 per cent. For EU-origin migrants, such as those from the Netherlands, Poland and Romania, the rate has risen from 51 per cent to 63.8 per cent. These figures indicate a gradual improvement in labour market integration compared to Belgian-born workers.
Unemployment figures reflect a similar trend. The share of officially unemployed non-EU migrants has halved over 10 years, falling from 14.7 per cent to 6.7 per cent. Among EU migrants, the rate has declined from 7.5 per cent to 4 per cent.
Generational differences
These trends are the result of economic growth and labour market shortages, combined with government efforts in recent years, according to the office of Flemish minister for Integration and Civic Integration, Hilde Crevits (CD&V).
However, there are still differences between first and second generation migrants. While the second generation of EU origin has an employment rate of 74.2 per cent, the rate for non-EU origin remains at 64.5 per cent. Additional measures are needed to close this gap.
“Strong language skills are crucial for employment”
Language skills remain a key factor. Newcomers from outside the EU face particular challenges due to language barriers, making them more vulnerable in the labour market.
“Strong language skills are crucial for employment,” Crevtis’ office said. The Flemish government has responded by raising the required language level to B1 and expanding opportunities for language practice.
In light of the 2024 elections, the Samenlevingsbarometer also surveyed newcomers’ trust in government and political priorities. Non-EU migrants expressed high levels of confidence in local authorities and prioritised issues such as poverty reduction, discrimination, and housing. In contrast, Belgian-born respondents placed greater emphasis on pensions, social security, and migration.
