What works and for whom? Toward a more inclusive labour market in the Nordics

This report provides valuable insights and recommendations to improve integration and employment opportunities for these groups, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive labor market in the Nordic region.

The report highlights the complexity of employment barriers, indicating that there are no universal solutions. Vulnerable individuals face diverse challenges, from health issues to lack of work experience, necessitating a holistic approach that integrates various active labor market policies and support services. The importance of aligning interventions with specific needs and contexts, and the critical role of caseworkers and employer collaboration, is emphasized.

While some instruments, such as labor market training and wage subsidies, show positive effects, others, like guidance programs, have mixed results. The report also identifies gaps in research, particularly regarding innovative approaches such as profiling and rehabilitative efforts.

To increase employment outcomes, the report advocates for a comprehensive, cross-sectoral strategy, drawing on best practices from the Nordic countries and international experiences. Successful labour market integration for vulnerable groups requires a nuanced understanding of individual barriers and a flexible, multi-faceted strategy tailored to each group’s specific needs.