Labor Market Integration of Young Refugees in Germany – Final Evaluation Results of a Model Project

Study purpose: Labor market integration is a key task toward the integration of young adult refugees (YARs). Toward this end, a multi-sector demonstration project was initiated in a mid-size city in Germany, aiming to prepare YARs, ages 18-25, to enter vocational educational training (VET) as a gateway into the labor market. Final results from a formative evaluation will be presented, which aimed to (1) explore processes from “within,” (2) identify factors that predict success, and (3) triangulate perspectives.

Methods: The mixed-method evaluation involves a triangulated approach with YARs, program staff, and VET instructors. Two cohorts of YARs (n=27) were recruited and interviewed at several timepoints (pre, post, follow-up) over an 18-month period. Efforts were made to interview participants that dropped out of the program. Key informant interviews were conducted with program staff (n=4). VET instructors (n=10) were interviewed at one time. Data were transcribed and analyzed concurrently to data collection through thematic descriptive analysis.

Results: Outcome data indicated that 72.2% of program-completers and 48.1% of program participants entered VET following the program. Four overarching themes emerged out of the qualitative data – ‘divergence of goals, expectation and interests,’ `getting stuck in the transition,` ‘salience of of relationships, mentoring and social networks,’ and ‘intercultural challenges.’ Multiple subthemes were identified that distinguished between program completers and dropouts. Subanalyses of longitudinal data revealed compelling attitudinal shifts among YARs and staff over the 18-month period. Overall, findings revealed the need for a resource-oriented approach, the need for mentoring beyond the program and the building of social networks.

Conclusion: Qualitative data offered an in-depth examination of the anatomy of the program. The triangulation of perspectives revealed multiple factors that are hypothesized to affect program success. Findings point to the central role of social workers in brokering services and providing program to YARs and instructors.