Young refugees’ and asylum seekers’ career choices: a qualitative investigation

Abstract

A major challenge for refugees and asylum seekers is social and professional integration. Using constructivist and capability approaches, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 young refugees and asylum seekers enrolled in an integration program in French-speaking Switzerland about their career choices. Following consensual qualitative and phenomenological approaches, we focused on their life trajectories (the situation in their home country, triggers behind their flight, arrival in Switzerland) and their current situation (resources and barriers). From their career plans, interests, and values, we formed three profiles (the vocation seekers, the altruists, and the work lovers) to characterize how they constructed their careers.