Why the integration of immigrant youths into the labour market is an appealing initiative

This blog post explores the benefits of migrants' integration into the labour market, highlighting the challenges toward the integration into entrepreneurs’ society.

The EU, following the 2015 migration crises, aims to promote inclusion for all, recognizing the contribution of migrants and addressing barriers to their participation. The goal is to reduce inequality, promote diversity, innovate, address demographic challenges, and tap into the valuable talent pool of migrants.

In response, the Spanish government has introduced a new regulation on foreigners, focusing on migrant workers' rights and company guarantees, a significant step in upholding EU law and promoting training for such groups.

In her remark, the Spanish minister for inclusion, social security, and migration argued that a prosperous society must know how to train and attract talent:

"Spain welcomes talent of all nationalities because we know that talent knows no sex, status, or origin”[1].

Of course, the migrants usually come with a unique set of talents, but the rapid growth of technology presents challenges to their integration process, as most of them come from developing countries. This complex system exacerbates existing integration hurdles and hinders seamless integration into prosperous societies.

Thus, Policymakers and communities should invest in training immigrants' youths to unlock their talents. Successful integration is not only a demonstration of openness to the diverse backgrounds of immigrants, largely driven by economic considerations, but it could also be viewed from a human rights perspective — which is to ensure the fulfillment of social justice, fostering a sense of belonging, and breaking down the poverty cycles.

Practically, the integration of immigrant youths into entrepreneurs' societies by leveraging their diverse backgrounds, languages, and unique perspectives can benefit both immigrants and communities.

For example, it fosters:

• Innovation

• Creativity

• Problem-solving

• Productivity

• Economic growth that cannot be achieved homogeneously.

And, more importantly, it can also benefit employers and the economy, helping organizations stay competitive in a rapidly changing global landscape.

In addition, it helps the EU and its member states address demographic shifts, and providing a younger, dynamic workforce can support economic growth and social welfare systems, particularly in sectors like the agrarian economy and skilled trades.

While integrating immigrant youths into the labour market is beneficial, there are also challenges such as:

• Language and cultural barriers

• Lack of recognition of qualifications

• Discrimination

• Lack of social networks

• Socioeconomic disadvantages

 A comprehensive approach, including language and cultural training, streamlined processes for recognizing qualifications, combating discrimination, strengthening social networks, and targeted education programs, can help immigrant youths navigate the host country's work environment, find suitable employment, and build social capital.

These efforts can help create more inclusive and equitable workplaces, promoting diversity and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

[1] The Government: Activities of the Council of Ministry. The government of Spain improves the social and labour integration of immigrants, 20244.11.19