Brussels, Belgium – A significant number of Ukrainian women who have sought refuge in Belgium since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion in February 2022 have found employment, but often in low-wage sectors, highlighting the challenges faced by skilled migrants in integrating into the Belgian labor market. Recent reports indicate that approximately a quarter of Ukrainian women in Belgium are currently working as cleaners, a trend that underscores both the immediate need for income and the difficulties in matching qualifications with available opportunities.
The influx of Ukrainian refugees into Belgium began in earnest following Russia’s escalation of the conflict in Ukraine. According to data from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), as of February 2026, over 6.5 million Ukrainian refugees are registered across Europe, with Belgium hosting a substantial portion of this population. The UNHCR reports that the majority of these refugees are women and children, as men of fighting age were largely restricted from leaving the country. This demographic reality has significantly shaped the labor market dynamics for Ukrainian newcomers in Belgium.
Challenges to Professional Integration
While finding any employment is crucial for refugees, many Ukrainian women possess higher education qualifications and professional experience that are not being fully utilized in their novel roles. The service sector, particularly cleaning services utilizing dienstencheques (service vouchers), has become a common entry point. These vouchers, a Belgian system designed to subsidize household services, offer a relatively quick route to employment, but often at the expense of career progression. De Standaard reports that once individuals enter this sector, it can be demanding to transition to positions that align with their previous training and expertise.
“It’s a struggle in the labor market,” a sentiment echoed by both Ukrainian refugees and employment support organizations. Many women who previously held professional positions – such as teachers, engineers, and managers – are now working in cleaning roles simply to provide for their families. The process of having foreign qualifications recognized in Belgium can be lengthy and complex, creating a significant barrier to re-entering their professions. The Federal Public Service Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue outlines the procedures for recognition of foreign qualifications on its website. More information can be found here.
Irina Kolupaieva, a 19-year-old who fled Kharkiv and now works as a cleaner in Limburg, exemplifies this challenge. She worked in a pharmacy in Ukraine but is currently navigating the process of having her diploma homologated, a process that can take considerable time and resources. As reported by VRT News, Irina hopes to eventually work in her field again, but for now, cleaning work provides essential income.
The Broader Context of Ukrainian Refugee Integration
The situation faced by Ukrainian women in Belgium is part of a wider pattern of integration challenges experienced by refugees across Europe. Language barriers, cultural differences, and the trauma of displacement all contribute to difficulties in finding suitable employment. The Belgian government, along with various non-governmental organizations, has implemented programs to assist Ukrainian refugees with language training, job searching, and recognition of qualifications. However, demand for these services often outstrips supply.
Maryana Stelmakh, another Ukrainian refugee featured in the VRT News report, has had more success. A trained translator, she now works as a clerk at Nippon Express in Genk, demonstrating that successful integration is possible with the right support and opportunities. Her story highlights the importance of leveraging existing skills and providing pathways for refugees to contribute their expertise to the Belgian economy.
Mobilization and Family Separation
The circumstances surrounding the initial wave of Ukrainian refugees as well played a role in the current labor market situation. As VRT News detailed, men were largely unable to leave Ukraine due to mobilization efforts, except in cases where families had three or more children. This resulted in a disproportionate number of women and children seeking refuge in neighboring countries, including Belgium, and placed a greater financial burden on female-headed households.
The Role of the Dienstencheque System
The dienstencheque system, while providing immediate employment opportunities, has reach under scrutiny for potentially trapping refugees in low-skilled jobs. The system allows individuals to purchase vouchers that can be exchanged for household services, such as cleaning. While it offers flexibility for both employers and employees, critics argue that it does not provide adequate career development opportunities or fair wages. The average hourly rate for cleaning services through the dienstencheque system is significantly lower than the national minimum wage in Belgium, which as of March 2026, is €14.50 per hour. Expatica provides details on the current minimum wage in Belgium.
However, proponents of the system argue that it provides a valuable service to families and offers a flexible employment option for those who need it. They also point out that it can be a stepping stone to other employment opportunities, allowing refugees to build a network and improve their language skills.
Looking Ahead
The long-term integration of Ukrainian refugees into the Belgian labor market remains a significant challenge. Addressing the barriers to qualification recognition, providing targeted language training, and promoting inclusive hiring practices are crucial steps. Ensuring that refugees have access to affordable childcare and other support services is essential for enabling them to participate fully in the workforce.
The Belgian government is currently reviewing its integration policies for refugees, with a focus on improving access to education and training. A parliamentary commission is expected to present its recommendations in June 2026. This review is a critical opportunity to address the systemic challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees and ensure that they have the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute to Belgian society.
The situation also highlights the broader need for European-wide coordination in refugee integration efforts. Sharing best practices, harmonizing qualification recognition procedures, and providing financial support to host countries are essential for ensuring a fair and equitable response to the ongoing refugee crisis.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the number of refugees seeking shelter in Belgium and other European countries is likely to remain high. Continued investment in integration programs and a commitment to inclusive labor market policies will be vital for ensuring that these individuals have the opportunity to thrive.
The next key development to watch is the release of the parliamentary commission’s recommendations on refugee integration policies in June 2026. This report is expected to outline concrete steps to address the challenges faced by Ukrainian refugees and improve their access to employment and education. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences on this vital issue in the comments below.
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