Refugee Workforce Reports 67 Percent Employment Rate
Employers should note that high employment for refugees from Ukraine is paired with poverty rates double that of host residents.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Employment
Live Poll
Do you believe host nations are doing enough to support the economic integration of refugees?
The UNHCR 2025 Socio-Economic Insights Survey reveals an employment rate of 67 percent among refugees from Ukraine. The data, which reflects outcomes for business owners and employers integrating displaced workers, highlights persistent economic disparities for this population.
Why it matters
Understanding refugee labor market integration is essential for businesses navigating talent shortages and workplace diversity. Despite high employment figures, refugee poverty rates remain more than twice those of host populations, indicating ongoing financial instability.
The UNHCR survey covers 4,260 refugee households and 9,667 individuals across nine countries. With an employment rate of 67 percent, this demographic faces poverty rates double those of local host populations.
The players
UNHCR
The United Nations agency mandated to provide humanitarian aid and protect the rights of refugees globally.
The details
The survey analyzed labor integration across nine nations involved in the Regional Refugee Response Plan throughout 2025. While the majority of refugees are active in the workforce, the disparity in poverty rates suggests that many find employment in roles that do not offer full financial security or wage parity with native workers. For operators, this indicates that while the talent pool is active, existing compensation structures may need assessment to support employee retention and stability.
Timeline
The Socio-Economic Insights Survey was conducted throughout 2025.
Market Landscape
This survey provides data on labor participation within the broader Regional Refugee Response Plan. It follows trends in international labor integration and updates economic benchmarks for displaced workers.
Employers should note that while 67 percent of Ukrainian refugees are employed, persistent poverty rates suggest that many are working in low-wage or unstable positions. Businesses should evaluate whether current compensation and benefits packages sufficiently address the needs of this workforce segment.
The takeaway
The high employment rate among refugees highlights a significant, active talent pool currently integrating into host country labor markets. Operators should review their wage structures to ensure they are meeting competitive standards that effectively lift employees out of the poverty levels identified in the 2025 survey.
Further reading
For broader trends on international labor markets, visit our Employment section.
More information
View the full UNHCR socio-economic insights survey report for detailed data.
Source note: This article includes information reported by UNHCR Operational Data Portal (ODP).
Live Poll
Do you believe host nations are doing enough to support the economic integration of refugees?
