20/01/2025
More than 250 companies applied for the Welcome logo and more than 17,000 job placement routes promoted by companies
Welcome 2024, the numbers of the UNHCR project
In 2024, 253 applications were submitted for the Welcome logo, the recognition granted by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to companies that have fostered, over the past year, the employment inclusion of refugee persons by activating pathways of inclusion dedicated to them. This is the highest number of applicant companies ever and increasing from 244 in 2023. This was stated in a note by UNHCR.
In altogether, with companies awarded in 2024, it is estimated that the number of 950 companies awarded since 2017 will be reached, reflecting a strong and growing interest of the corporate world in the labour integration of refugees. The nominations received by UNHCR show a strong national spread and different business sectors involved. Third sector services, hospitality, and building construction are the most representative, with the construction sector registering 43 applications, a significant increase from 29 in 2023.
Preliminary data reveal that 17,310 work inclusion initiatives for refugee persons were activated this year, a sharp 47 percent increase from 2023. However,” UNHCR says, ”challenges such as temporary contracts, language barriers and limited female participation (19 percent of total placements) remain areas for further focus.
The Welcome logo awarding ceremony will take place again this year on June 20, on the occasion of World Refugee Day.
Published: Monday 20 January 2025 - Last modify: Wednesday 05 February 2025
