January 28th 2026
Court of Audit: potential status holder remains untapped
The Netherlands is still underutilizing the labor potential of recognized refugees, concludes the Netherlands Court of Audit. Despite significant staff shortages in sectors such as construction, healthcare, and technology, the integration law rarely leads to paid employment at a high level.
Untapped potential
In the report, which Refugee Talent Hub also contributed to, the Netherlands Court of Audit states that the integration law does not sufficiently contribute to sustainable labor participation. Programs take too long, language proficiency remains low, and flow into sectors with staff shortages is limited. Only a small percentage of refugees find work, often at low wages and not at the required level, while their previous education and experience remain unused. According to the Court of Audit, clear choices, guidance, and measurable goals are lacking. Without better insight into potential and a better connection between language, work, and further training, full participation remains out of reach.
Pieter Duisenberg, president of the Court of Audit, in RTL News:
"There are many employers with genuine good will who work against all odds to give people opportunities despite the rules."
🔗 Read the full report here
Energy Skills
While integration is often difficult, we demonstrate that giving refugees a chance as talented employees is a no-brainer. Together with partners Enexis, Alliander, and TenneT, we offer the Energy Skills program: a preparatory program that prepares refugees for work in the energy transition. Candidates develop technical skills, learn about safety and Dutch jargon, and are introduced to Dutch work culture. This prepares them to work as technicians for grid operators and subcontractors.
👉 Learn more about Energy Skills
In the news
The report hit the national media yesterday, and several news platforms ( NOS , Nu.nl , Telegraaf , Trouw ) covered the results. Ultimately, our partner Enexis was also featured on RTL Nieuws, as an example of an employer doing a good job of utilizing talented refugees. Read their response on LinkedIn.