Why Ukrainian Refugees in Europe Earn Half the Wages of Local Workers
Data from the UNHCR and OECD reveals a stark income gap for Ukrainian refugees across Europe, with their median earnings nearly 50% lower than those of citizens in their host countries. The primary driver of this disparity is a widespread mismatch between refugees' qualifications and their jobs. Over a third of Ukrainian refugees with higher education are employed in low-skilled roles, a situation affecting just 7% of the local workforce, highlighting a significant underutilization of talent.
Earnings of Ukrainian Refugees by Country
Refugees in Northern and Western Europe report the highest incomes, though still far below local levels. For instance:
- In the UK, Ukrainians earn a median of €1,987, compared to roughly €3,235 for locals.
- In Norway, refugees earn €1,978 against a local median of €3,435.
- In the Netherlands, the figures are €1,949 versus €3,000.
- In Ireland, Ukrainians earn €1,781, while citizens earn about €3,300.
The lowest earnings for Ukrainian refugees are found in the Balkans and parts of Southern Europe:
- In Romania, the median is just €586.
- In Bulgaria, it is €612.
- Other countries with low refugee incomes include Italy (€1,000), Spain (€1,125), and France (€1,299).
- In Germany, refugees earn €1,455; in Austria, €1,625; and in the Czech Republic, €1,027.
In other nations, the median income for Ukrainians is €973 in Poland, €900 in Slovakia, €1,000 in Lithuania, and €1,039 in Estonia. This widespread underemployment accounts for roughly 40% of the overall pay gap. Nearly 60% of working refugees report being employed below their skill level, underscoring the systemic barriers to professional integration they face across the continent.
'The analysis of Ukrainian refugee incomes in Europe points to the significant difficulties they face in integrating into new labor markets.' - Source: UNHCR
Despite high education levels, many are compelled to take jobs that do not match their qualifications, directly suppressing their earnings. This situation calls for targeted action from policymakers and organizations to facilitate professional recognition and ensure refugees have equal opportunities in the labor market. The challenge of transferring professional credentials and experience across borders remains a key obstacle for displaced populations globally.