Over 180,000 Ukrainian Refugees Have Permanent Jobs in the Czech Republic
Approximately 77% of the 339,000 Ukrainian refugees with temporary protection in the Czech Republic are economically active individuals (not students or retirees), with 69% (over 180,000 people) holding permanent jobs, reports Radio Prague International.
The relevant study was conducted by the International Organization for Migration. The survey took place from January 2 to December 22, 2023, and involved 5,010 Ukrainian refugees of age 18 and above residing in all regions of the Czech Republic.
The study results also indicated that the majority of those who left Ukraine for the Czech Republic due to the Russian invasion are women. A significant portion of them have a high level of education and managed to find employment upon arrival in the Czech Republic. However, according to experts from the IOM, securing stable employment remains a challenge, especially for single mothers, individuals over 60 years old, or those with health issues. Additionally, most of those unemployed and not actively seeking work cite caregiving responsibilities for family members—children, elderly relatives, or disabled individuals—as the reason.
The highest employment rates are observed among those with prior work experience in Ukraine in fields such as machinery operation, locksmithing, driving, craftsmanship, or agriculture. Proficiency in the Czech language plays a crucial role in finding stable employment. It is noted that over four-fifths of Czech-speaking refugees have jobs in the country.
The study also revealed that the majority of refugees have higher professional or university education but often work in unskilled jobs in the Czech Republic, especially women. Many of them feel that their positions do not match their qualifications. About half of the men also work below their qualification level.
Furthermore, it is mentioned that most refugees derive income from various sources: employment, government support, family or community assistance, as well as savings. Most of them live in regular rented accommodation, but some still reside in hostels, hotels, or guesthouses.
The study also showed that most refugees express a desire to return to Ukraine. This intention was voiced by 69% of respondents. Only 12% of respondents have no plans to return, while the remaining 19% have not yet decided whether they will go back.