IKEA launches unique model to hire more immigrants in Norway

IKEA and the Norwegian government have signed a deal to help get more of the county’s immigrants into the labor force.

Amid the pandemic, Norway’s immigrants are among the hardest-hit groups in terms of layoffs and unemployment.

The Norwegian Labor and Welfare Administration (NAV) has joined forces with IKEA to help those that are able find a job in Norway.

Unemployment among the immigrant population

According to Statistics Norway, 9.5% of Norway’s immigrants were registered as unemployed at the end of 2020.

Unemployment was an issue already facing immigrants and refugees, even before the pandemic. One of the main problems is Norwegian language skill level.

Now, due to the pandemic, an already competitive market has become even more difficult for immigrants.

IKEA and new job opportunities

The collaboration began in Oslo

Achieving success in Oslo, one of Norway’s most diverse cities, was a good marker for the rest of the country.

So, in late 2020 NAV signed a deal to extend the partnership to a national level.

“The Bridge to Work” is the name officially chosen for the now country-wide initiative.

A nationwide effort

The unique collaboration model combines Norwegian language training with work practice. 

This means that adult education, based in the respective municipality plays an important role together with NAV and the employer. 

Half of successful participants received a job in IKEA, and even more began working with other employers.

Source: #Norway Today / #NorwayTodayNews