To date, four projects have been launched, benefitting 70 refugees currently residing in Colombia, Egypt, Uganda, and Jordan. Once in Italy, they will work in the airport services, shipbuilding, IT, and goldsmith sectors. These projects—recognised as best practices—are designed for future expansion to include additional economic sectors and geographic contexts, with the goal of significantly increasing opportunities for both displaced people and Italian companies.
Italy remains a global pioneer in creating regular labour migration channels for refugees, by establishing dedicated quotas within its annual migration planning and through an "extra-quota" pathway. This latter channel allows Italian employers to select and hire refugees at the end of overseas training programmes. It offers a model of integration and solidarity that recognises refugee talent while addressing critical workforce shortages in Italy.
Today, over 122 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide due to conflict and persecution. About 73% live in low- or middle-income countries, where opportunities to rebuild their lives are often scarce—pushing many to risk dangerous journeys at the hands of traffickers.
Labour mobility pathways offer refugees a safe and legal opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity and in line with their skills. They also clearly demonstrate the vital role the private sector can play in offering effective, concrete solutions rooted in solidarity and protection.
“In a time of global crisis, we need bold and concrete responses for refugees. Labour mobility corridors combine protection with possibility, placing people and their potential at the centre. Italy is charting a new course where institutions, businesses, and civil society walk together,” added Chiara Cardoletti, UNHCR Representative for Italy, the Holy See, and San Marino.
“Labour mobility corridors represent a transformative opportunity not only for refugees but also for host countries. Italy is showing leadership by demonstrating that refugee protection and labour market needs can go hand in hand, ”said Daniele Albanese, Head of Europe Programs at Talent Beyond Boundaries.
This initiative aligns with the objectives of the Global Compact on Refugees, highlighting the importance of global cooperation to enable refugees to use their skills for the benefit of all—creating a better future for themselves and the communities that welcome them.
The Labour Mobility Corridors for Refugees programme is the result of close cooperation among UNHCR, Diaconia Valdese, Talent Beyond Boundaries, and Pathways International, in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Labour, and the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
It is supported by ACRI (Association of Foundations and Savings Banks), Compagnia di San Paolo Foundation, Reale Foundation, The Human Safety Net, and co-financed by the EU's AMIF Fund (Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund).
For more information: Contact [email protected]
