Qualified immigration as a key factor for a competitive location – strategy to combat the shortage of skilled workers necessary – prospects for Ukrainians to stay
Vienna (OTS) – “The ongoing record high number of job vacancies despite economically challenging times shows that the labor and skilled labor shortage is drastic and will remain so due to demographic developments. Among other things, it will also be necessary to attract international skilled workers for Austria’s companies in order to secure the industrial, employment and business location. The government’s strategic action plan against the shortage of skilled workers and the establishment of a strategy committee for international skilled workers at the Federal Minister for Labor and Economic Affairs are an important step in the fight against the shortage of skilled workers,” says Christoph Neumayer, General Secretary of the Association of Industrialists (IV), on the occasion of the decision made in the Council of Ministers , pleased.
An important reform of the red-white-red card came into force in October last year and has brought many improvements, which also address numerous key, long-standing concerns of the industry. This reform is having an impact, as 40% more red-white-red cards have been positively approved this year compared to the previous year. However, the number of red-white-red cards issued must be further increased in order to make a substantial contribution to the fight against the shortage of skilled workers. “The industry has therefore repeatedly spoken out in favor of a comprehensive skilled workers strategy from the federal government. It is therefore all the more gratifying that there are steps in this direction today. The desired digitization of the application process for the red-white-red card is particularly positive,” emphasizes Neumayer.
People displaced from Ukraine can also make a further contribution to covering the labor and skilled labor shortage, as the government also states in the strategy adopted today. “We have to offer Ukrainians suitable prospects in the Austrian labor market. It is important to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and actively promote the transition into working life. There is a need for practical additional income regulations for people displaced from Ukraine in basic services throughout Austria. “In addition, these people must also be offered a longer-term perspective to stay once they have gained a foothold in the Austrian labor market,” concluded Neumayer.
Questions & Contact:
Industrial Association
Marlena Mayer
Press spokesperson
+43 (1) 711 35-2315
marlena.mayer@iv.at
https://iv.at/