Labour Pathways for Refugees: The Human Safety Net at the Forefront of a New Integration Model

A landmark memorandum of understanding has been signed in Rome on 27 June, with the aim to further strengthen Italy’s position as a global pioneer in developing labour mobility pathways for refugees – safe and regulated routes that enable qualified refugees to enter the country on the basis of real job opportunities. This agreement, involving the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Ministry of Labour, UNHCR, and a wide network of civil society and private sector partners, marks a significant milestone.

Among the main supporters of the programme is The Human Safety Net which plays a strategic role in ensuring the programme’s long-term sustainability and effectiveness.

What are labour mobility pathways?

Labour mobility pathways allow skilled refugees to enter and reside in Italy through a secure legal route for employment. These programmes respond to the refugees’ need for protection while safeguarding their rights and tapping into their professional skills.

Candidates are selected based on their experience and qualifications. The programmes include pre-departure training and provide valid travel documents and residence permits, ensuring a smooth transition into the Italian labour market.

The current projects

Four pilot projects are currently underway, involving an initial group of 70 refugees:

• ReadyForIT: an IT training and placement programme, with companies such as Accenture, Experis, Reale Mutua, and others ready to hire successful candidates.
• Navigare nel futuro: training in international shipbuilding, targeting both refugees and Egyptian nationals.
• Goldsmith for Italy: focused on the goldsmith sector, led by EG Ghirardi and Mattioli S.p.A, with support from Turquoise Mountain.
• Wings for a New Future: 40 refugees will be trained and employed in Rome’s airport sector by Avia Partners S.p.A.

A win-win model: for refugees, businesses, and host countries

Labour mobility programmes deliver wide-ranging benefits:

• For refugees: they offer a legal, safe, and dignified route to rebuild their lives. Employment boosts self-reliance, supports economic stability, and promotes social integration.
• For employers: in a global context of skill shortages, refugees offer valuable expertise and help diversify the workforce, bringing unique perspectives and experience.
• For host countries: they contribute to economic growth, social cohesion, and stronger communities. Integration through employment is a key driver for inclusive and resilient societies.
• For countries of origin: through remittances and knowledge transfer, employed refugees can also support family members and contribute to the recovery of their home countries, should they choose to return.

The Human Safety Net’s impact

The Human Safety Net’s involvement reflects its mission to empower people to shape a better future for themselves and their communities. By supporting labour corridors we are investing in a system that holds the potential to combine economic inclusion and development, addressing individual and community needs.