A new digital platform designed to link Syrian refugees with potential employers worldwide was launched, according to the Danish Refugee Council (DRC), helping refugees overcome barriers such as language and lack of connections in local job markets.
The platforms allow employers worldwide to advertise jobs to target Syrian refugees who can register with the platform with their resumes, and cover letter. The platforms users can also apply to jobs worldwide and compete in the recruitment process.
With the Syria crisis entering its 7th year, more than 4.8 million refugees from Syria are living in neighbouring countries, who have been facing challenges trying to incorporate these vast numbers into their local job market, and the refugees find integration in their new setting difficult due to language barriers, unclear labour laws and legal status.
“Because low or unskilled jobs are often the only employment opportunities for Syrians, their skills and professions prior to the conflict are underutilised or ignored – with the risk of losing those skills over time if they are not practiced and maintained.” according to Manuela Moy, Head of DRC Turkey Programs.
“DRC believes that this website will help both; it will help companies gain access to new qualified, skilled individuals, and help refugees connect with employers across the globe, with a focus on the Middle East,” Moy added.
With generous support from Soulstice Consulting, DRC Step Up, both website and mobile application, aims to support Syrians in finding work opportunities relevant to their education and experience, while also encouraging employers across the region to hire skilled Syrian candidates in their organisations.
The platforms allow employers worldwide to advertise jobs to target Syrian refugees who can register with the platform with their resumes, and cover letter. The platforms users can also apply to jobs worldwide and compete in the recruitment process.
DRC StepUp is available in Arabic, English and Turkish to facilitate access for job seekers and a wide range of employers. The website also provides interview, CV and cover letter writing tips in addition to a resume builder and a chance for candidates to create a video of themselves to further persuade employers to hire them. In addition, DRC StepUp provides legal updates regarding the new laws and work regulation both for employers and candidates specifically for each country in MENA.
“Syrians need to find work opportunities to support themselves and their families; without work, people and families will either sink into poverty or resort to negative coping mechanisms to survive”, says Leonore Issele, DRC’s Livelihoods Manager in Turkey.
DRC’s livelihood programme focuses on capacity building and facilitating linkages between unemployed Syrian refugees and potential employers. Aiming to base its activities on a thorough understanding of the labour market, DRC aims to ensure that activities are led by existing demand and in line with the parameters established by the governments and authorities.