Background information

The aim of the programme is to support the employability of refugees in Estonia. The programme provides support for those looking to enter the labour market as well as for those seeking opportunities to advance their careers.

The programme is initiated by Estonian Refugee Council and partners include the Latvian NGO Shelter “Safe House”, the Estonian Labour Inspectorate, and the Latvian Labour Inspectorate.

The programme is funded by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region Programme with the assistance of the European Regional Development Fund.

Content of measure

The measure is aimed at individuals with refugee background ages under 25 or over 55. In total, 144 individuals can participate in the programme in Estonia throughout the year, with one group of 10-12 participants starting each month.

The programme includes training sessions consisting of five modules. The first module provides an overview of the application process and job search opportunities, introducing important documents and various CV submission platforms. Subsequent modules cover an overview of national labour market policies, psychological assistance, the job interview process and stages of job application. According to Estonian Refugee Council, practical activities such as role-playing, job interview simulations, and group interviews are essential components of the programme. In addition, the programme offers opportunities for internships or job shadowing, involving various employers.

There is no information on scale of support in monetary terms.

Use of measure

As of March 2025, 10 groups in both Estonia and Latvia each have completed the programme, and each month about 10-12 individuals participate.

Target groups

Workers	Businesses	Citizens
Migrants or refugees in employment	Does not apply to businesses	Migrants or refugees

Actors and funding

Actors	Funding
National government Other social actors (e.g. NGOs)	European Funds

Social partners

Social partners' role in designing the measure and form of involvement:

	Trade unions	Employers' organisations
Role	No involvement	No involvement
Form	Not applicable	Not applicable

Social partners' role in the implementation, monitoring and assessment phase:

• No involvement
• Main level of involvement: N/A

Involvement

There is no social partner involvement.

Views and reactions

Social partners have not expressed any views.

Sources

• 14 May 2024: New Employability Programme Helps Job Seekers With Refugee Backgrounds Enter Labour Marke (pagulasabi.ee)
• 10 April 2025: Overview of the Estonian Refugee Council's Activities in Marc (pagulasabi.ee)