Oudere dame opent voor thuiszorgmedewerker van niet-westerse achtergrond
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A carefully considered labour migration policy. How long-term care can benefit from skilled migrants.

Mindful of the importance of long-term care to well-being, this report on ‘A carefully considered labour migration policy’ sets out a recommendation from the Dutch Advisory Council on Migration (ACVZ) to attract skilled migrant workers with senior secondary vocational education (MBO) qualifications at level 3 and above.

However, certain conditions do need to be met as part of this, in relation to the rights of migrant workers themselves, the host society (from both a short- and long-term perspective), and the countries of origin. In other words, labour migration needs to benefit the migrant workers themselves, as well as the Netherlands and the workers’ countries of origin.

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If we are to meet the growing demand for care and tackle the decline in available labour both now and in the future (2025-2050), the Netherlands will need to encourage specific, targeted labour migration alongside other labour market interventions. It’s essential that the government in particular, but also care institutions and other stakeholders ensure that the conditions articulated above are met. The Dutch government therefore needs to take the lead on developing and managing a welcoming and carefully considered labour migration policy for the long-term care sector. This is best achieved through ethically responsible partnerships with the countries of origin, such as Indonesia or Tunisia.

Questions, suggestions?

Any questions or suggestions on this publication? Please contact Christine Otten.

Also visit other English publications of the Advisory Council