A shortage of skilled labour, overburdened authorities and untapped potential among qualified refugees are placing increasing pressure on the Czech labour market. Companies warn that key sectors would hardly be able to function without foreign employees.
The Czech labour market is facing a deep structural problem: despite more than 1.1 million foreigners living in the country, companies are still desperately searching for workers. According to a report by news channel ČT24, industry, logistics, food production and shift-based operations are particularly affected.
The demographic situation is further worsening the problem. While around 190,000 workers reached the age of 50 last year, only around 95,000 young people are entering the labour market. Experts are therefore warning of a long-term labour shortage.
The dependence on foreign workers is particularly evident in the transport sector. In some companies, around 80 per cent of drivers now come from countries such as Ukraine, Kazakhstan or Moldova. Companies in the food industry are reporting similar problems. Many production facilities would hardly be able to operate around the clock without foreign employees. In addition, many Czechs are no longer willing to work weekends, public holidays or shift patterns.
To attract new workers from abroad, many companies use the state programme “Kvalifikovaný pracovník” (“Qualified Worker”). However, employers criticise strict quotas and long processing times at Czech authorities abroad.
Highly qualified refugees often work far below their level
Another key issue is the situation of Ukrainian refugees. More than 600,000 Ukrainians are now living in the Czech Republic. Studies show, however, that a large proportion of their qualifications remain unused.
While around 45 per cent of refugees in Ukraine worked in specialised professions, in the Czech Republic the figure has fallen to just around 16 per cent. Many now work in factories, on production lines or in basic support roles. Sociologists refer to this as so-called “brain waste” – the loss of valuable qualifications due to insufficient integration and language barriers.
Language barriers hinder integration
Experts see the lack of language support as a major problem. Although the Czech Republic managed the initial phase of refugee arrivals well, there are significant shortcomings when it comes to long-term integration.
According to the Prague Integration Centre, state-funded language courses are now mainly focused on specific sectors such as healthcare or social services. As a result, many people with other qualifications no longer have access to free Czech language courses.
As the number of foreign workers continues to rise, problems linked to illegal recruitment agencies are also increasing. These agencies often offer refugees poorly paid jobs and tie employment contracts to overpriced accommodation.
As a result, many affected individuals become heavily dependent on these agencies. The Czech government is therefore planning increased inspections as part of the “Kobra 26” initiative to combat illegal employment and the exploitation of foreign workers.
