Predictors of Unemployment in Refugees

Refugees have an increased risk of unemployment. We initially examined 83 unemployed refugees in Austria (mean age 34.01 years, s = 10.04), 42 of whom attended vocational training courses and 41 of whom did not. At the time of assessment some months later, 37 participants (44.6%) were employed and 46 (55.4%) were unemployed. We used sociodemographic variables as well as collectivistic values, clinical symptoms, command of the German language, perceived social support, and self-efficacy as possible predictors of unemployment. Logistic regression revealed that attending a training course, previous work experience, and a shorter time in Austria increased chances of employment. The logistic regression model we presented will enable practitioners to predict chances of employment in individual cases and to tailor refugees’ vocational rehabilitation to their personal needs. The results suggest that vocational rehabilitation for refugees should be provided as soon as possible after asylum has been granted.