Language and the labor market integration of foreign-born women The qualities of the methods developed by work integration social enterprises

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research was to study foreign-born women's exclusion from the labor market and how work-integrating social enterprises (WISE) can be a helping hand for integration into the labor market for the target group. Theory: It is informed by theories of social capital, language skills and psychological security. Method: We employ qualitative methods like semi-structured interviews, observations, and document analysis. An abductive approach was used to establish a theoretical foundation and analyze data by linking it to previous research and theories. The sample consists mainly of staff from a Swedish social enterprise, with some participants interviewed during observations Result: Despite continued language training initiatives in Sweden, immigrant women with limited language proficiency continue to face challenges in securing employment. Proficiency in the local language is pivotal for successful integration, and social enterprises can play a vital role in facilitating this process. Through tailored training programs aimed at overcoming language barriers, social enterprises can improve immigrant women's prospects for employment and foster their smooth integration into society.