The Capability to Integrate into the Labour Market: Examining the Experiences of Forced Migrants in Finland

Finland has experienced several waves of forced migration since gaining independence. Despite the country’s robust efforts to promote integration through official programmes, the entry of forced migrants into the labour market has not been successful compared to other migrant groups and the local Finnish population. While most research has examined the capabilities of forced migrants to integrate into the labour market, exploring relevant barriers from the perspectives of employers and integration counsellors, there has been limited attention to examining these individuals’ capabilities through the lens of their own lived experiences. This study addresses that gap by employing the capability approach as a theoretical framework, drawing on the experiences of 50 participants. The study reveals that forced migrants lack the capabilities to integrate into the labour market due to the constraining impact of various social conversion factors, including approaches, attitudes and practices, manifested through (a) a passive, one-size-fits-all labour market integration approach, (b) the undervaluation of foreign qualifications and work experience, and (c) perceived discriminatory practices. As municipalities assume the responsibility for organising integrations services, this study argues for adopting proactive approaches, providing tailored services and taking affirmative actions in order to address these barriers and develop the capabilities of forced migrants to integrate into the Finnish labour market.