Ukrainian displaced persons make a clear contribution to the Dutch economy. This is evident from new research on their impact, influencing factors, and future scenarios. The results align with previous insights from studies on asylum seekers and refugees: the business case is sound.

The facts in a row

 Since March 2022, Ukrainian displaced persons (IDPs) have been working in the Netherlands under the Temporary Protection Directive without a work permit. In 2024, the 112,000 Ukrainian IDPs in the Netherlands accounted for 49,000 jobs and generated €3.5 billion in added value. Their work generated €7.3 billion in production value and €3.5 billion in added value, or 0.36% of national income, according to the latest research by SEO Economic Research.

 The high labor participation of Ukrainian displaced persons is mainly determined by:

•  Need for income and self-reliance
•  Low-threshold access to work (no work permit required)
•  No integration requirement

 At the same time, there are factors that limit labor market participation. The most important are: limited language skills, a mismatch between previous experience/education and the Dutch labor market, and uncertainty about residency status and length of stay.

 Recognizable patterns

 The findings are consistent with previous studies:

•  Previous SEO research has shown that expanded employment opportunities for asylum seekers generates billions in revenue for society.
•  The Goldschmeding Foundation's impact analysis shows that investing in newcomers pays off.
• A TNO survey among approximately 5,000 employers showed that only 2.7% of organizations with more than 50 employees employ one or more status holders.
•  The Migration Advisory Council and ABN AMRO also reached the same conclusion: utilize talent, don't leave it unused on the sidelines.

 Clear message

 Whether it concerns refugees with refugee status, asylum seekers, or Ukrainian displaced persons, the figures tell the same story. People who want to work contribute. The remaining barriers are not about motivation, but about access and opportunities.

 The message is clear: the business case is there, the will is there: now it is up to employers to utilise this talent.

 Read also

•  The essay ' Status holders in the workplace are wrongly given the appearance against '
• Act to improve access to the labour market for newcomers
• Working asylum seekers generates billions