This report published by Caritas Sofia aims at filling in a knowledge gap regarding refugee women in the Bulgarian labour market. Research for the report was conducted in Caritas Sofia’s “St. Anna” Centre for Refugee and Migrant Integration.

Refugee women in Bulgaria face numerous obstacles in finding employment. Most of them come from social environments in which they are encouraged to stay at home and look after their children. Women are also discouraged by the general conditions of their stay in Bulgaria. Many women feel confused and disoriented in their new environment which, more often than not, is unwelcoming toward them.

Women who are highly motivated may face additional obstacles, such as a lack of formal qualifications or prior professional experience. Even after finding employment, women struggle to keep up with both their professional obligations and family responsibilities.

Yet, despite these numerous difficulties, many refugee women have shown a great degree of resilience and ability to adapt to their new environment. They were not only able to overcome traditional gender roles but also to change the way they perceive themselves and their role in society. Bulgaria’s economy is steadily growing, unemployment rates are low, especially in Sofia, and there is a great demand for low-skilled labour. If refugee women learn Bulgarian and gain basic soft-skills that would ease their integration in a working environment, this would significantly increase their chances of finding employment.

The study examines:

Cultural barriers to employment

• Gender roles and traditions
• Family obligations and raising children
• Distrust and stereotypes in the host country
• Challenges in a new setting

Lack of professional experience and qualifications

• Low level of education and qualifications
• Recognition of diplomas and finding suitable employment
• Knowledge of the host country language
• Work ethics
• Motivation as a factor

Job market obstacles and opportunities

• Employers and the labour market in Bulgaria
• Obstacles and opportunities