Benefits of Refugees in the Workforce

Refugees don’t want to live off handouts – they want to work, they want stability, and they want to end dependence. Allowing refugees in the workplace not only enables them to give back to the community, but brings local knowledge to the area, and skills can be passed down for generations to come, for employers and employees alike. Many refugees harness years of professional experience and trades, such as farmers, artisans or teachers, with a strong work ethic and resilience.  

This integration into the workforce begins with local education and training institutions, tailored to the needs of the local community. This is seen in various REI-funded projects, such as the Social Development Centre in Myanmar, or the Educational Programme for Syrian Children in Lebanon, in which teachers or staff members of these projects are refugees themselves. The Refugee Engagement and Empowerment Project in Nairobi, Kenya, provides training for young refugees, such as literacy courses or career skills, to empower them in financial independence and integration into the local community, such as through the workforce.  

Ultimately, when refugees are working, this enables them to integrate into the local community, whilst also benefitting the businesses that hire them. This fosters an environment of mutual understanding, reducing social tensions and creating bonds of solidarity.  

Isabella Drysdale, intern 2025