Purpose
Refugees often experience significant health burdens that can impact their integration into the labor market. This study examines the prevalence of psychological and musculoskeletal health burdens among refugees while participating in the Norwegian Introduction Programme (NIP) and how these health burdens influence later labor marked integration.
Methods
Using longitudinal health registry data on 60,325 refugees who completed the NIP between 2005 and 2018, we analyzed how health burdens during the NIP affected their employment status in 2020.
Results
Indicate that 20.2% of refugees received a psychological diagnosis and 42.6% received a musculoskeletal diagnosis during program participation. Health burdens were associated with lower employment rates: refugees with a psychological diagnosis or a musculoskeletal diagnosis had lower odds of employment in 2020.
Conclusions
The findings highlight the substantial health challenges faced by refugees and their impact on labor market integration. Strengthening healthcare support and integrating health-promoting activities within the NIP may enhance refugees' ability to participate in the workforce and improve their economic outcomes. Addressing both mental and physical health burdens early in the integration process may support long-term employment and successful social integration among refugees.
