Towards an effective and sustainable mentoring model for the integration of refugees into the European labour market

The aim of this research is to map the merit of and need for the equivalence recognition procedures of Naric Flanders for foreign qualifications. This recognition appears to be an important factor in finding (suitable) work for highly skilled migrants (Geets, 2011). Due to a lack of research on the subject, however, there is only limited knowledge regarding to what extent migrants actually need this equivalence recognition on the labor market and potentially in education. Besides, there is also a lack of clarity about what is the most recommended recognition procedure for finding suitable employment: specific equivalence provides more information but is more cost and time intensive than the level equivalence procedure. Furthermore, in some cases alternative procedures might be more appropriate. Therefore this research will identify the needs of applicants and employers on the one hand, and on the other hand make an assessment of the need and merit of the current Flemish equivalence recognition procedures for foreign qualifications regarding employment. To this end, a survey with equivalence applicants will be set up and interviews will be held with a selection of employers. The findings will be discussed with relevant stakeholders followed by a formulation of policy recommendations