Recognition of Prior Learning for Highly Skilled Refugees’ Labour Market Integration

Abstract In the integration of highly skilled refugees, recognition of their prior learning is a key factor. One concern is the object of the recognition process, the formal and the actual competence of the individual. Another concern is the subject of the process, the refugee. Starting from the individual and her/his experience and competence entails a different process and results than starting from professional regulations and labour market needs. A final concern is the process of recognition. Recognition processes could be seen solely as a matter of classification and assessment, but this misses that fact that the recognition process also means a learning process for the individual. This article discusses problems and opportunities relating to the recognition of prior learning targeting highly skilled refugees in relationship with these three concerns of object, subject and process of recognition

Sweden: steeply rising older workers' employment rates in a late-exit country

Sweden has very high employment rates for all age groups and both men and women. Effective retirement age is even rising after pension reforms with a flexibilization of the statutory retirement age. Incentives are given for later withdrawal and longer working careers, since pensions are based on all earnings during working life. Disability pensions are the most important pathway for early exits out of the labor market for all age groups, even though the rules for eligibility had been restricted in the reforms. Occupational pensions as “early” exit gain importance for over 60-year-olds, with more highly educated workers being more likely to take advantage of occupational pensions as an early exit route. This highlights the importance of education for retirement timing