How to get more people into work: Education, rehabilitation, collaboration

In short, the report concludes that there is no one-stop-shop and that the key to improving job opportunities for these vulnerable groups consists of a combination of education, policy initiatives, rehabilitation and multi-sectoral coordination. The findings provide a solid foundation for policymakers seeking research-based approaches to reducing unemployment among the most vulnerable in society.

The report shows that no single solution works for everyone when it comes to getting people into jobs. Different groups face different obstacles, and measures need to be adapted accordingly. For example, regular education works well for people with physical health problems, but those with mental health issues need different types of initiative, such as rehabilitation and phased returns to work, because the challenges they face are so complex that holistic solutions are called for. Lack of resources in day-to-day life can detract from blunt the effects of policy instruments, especially for young people, so it is important that programmes take into account every aspect of the individuals’ lives and address the biggest challenges they face in the appropriate order.

Education and policy instruments are key tools for getting more people into jobs. Although the results of guidance and counselling vary, the report sees policy instruments as highly effective, particularly for young people with health problems. Unfortunately, they are less effective for immigrants as they often get in the way of language learning, which suggests it may be better to provide language classes before sending migrants on work experience schemes.

Although mainstream education helps people with physical health problems enter the job market, those with mental health problems find it more of a challenge. Caseworkers also stress how important it is that people are motivated and capable of completing education and training programmes.

Rehabilitation and prevention are other important ways to get more people into work. While the results of rehabilitation measures have been good for people on sick leave, traditional labour-market schemes have worked less well for this group, which underlines the importance of tailored-made and multidisciplinary solutions.

Despite growing interest in preventive measures, such as the use of profiling to assess the needs of unemployed individuals, little research has been conducted into this area, even though new technology such as artificial intelligence has enhanced its potential.

Although the report covers a wide range of instruments, it points out that there are still significant knowledge gaps, particularly when it comes to compensation measures and targeting businesses. For example, little research has been conducted into organising workplaces in ways that help people with disabilities do their jobs, an aspect that caseworkers consider important.

The Nordic Council of Ministers hopes the new report will inspire additional research and more inclusive labour market policies.

On 25 February 2025, a webinar will mark the publication of the final report from the project “How to increase labour market participation among vulnerable groups in the Nordic countries?”, which provides policymakers with recommendations designed to help people from vulnerable social groups into the world of work. The webinar is being organised by HBS Economics and VIVE in collaboration with the Nordic Council of Ministers and the 2025 Finnish Presidency of the Nordic Council of Ministers. It will provide an opportunity to learn more about the findings and discuss ways of making progress towards more inclusive Nordic labour markets. Arto Satonen, the Finnish Minister of Employment, will open the event.