Non-EU women face persistent barriers in Belgian labour market
Practical obstacles and discrimination continue to limit job opportunities for women from outside the European Union in Belgium, according to a new report from the Institute for the Equality of Women and Men.
The employment rate among non-EU women stands at just 49 per cent, compared with 75 per cent for women of Belgian origin. Around a third of this difference can be explained by measurable factors such as education levels, but the rest remains unaccounted for, suggesting deeper systemic issues.
Language proficiency is cited as a major hurdle. Employers often demand high levels of Dutch or French, even for roles where English is the working language. Many women are eager to learn local languages, but financial pressures and family responsibilities make attending classes difficult.
Recognition of foreign qualifications and work experience also poses challenges: Belgium’s tightly regulated labour market often requires formal diplomas. Meanwhile, temporary or informal jobs rarely lead to career progression.
Discrimination further compounds these issues. Audit studies reveal that applicants with non-EU backgrounds receive fewer interview invitations, even when equally qualified. Non-EU women face an added disadvantage due to both gender- and migration-related bias, a phenomenon known as intersectional discrimination.
Traditional family roles, limited childcare options and precarious employment conditions also restrict labour participation. Non-EU women tend to enter the workforce later, work part-time more often, and earn lower wages on average.
The report calls for an intersectional approach to address these barriers, which strengthens language education, simplifies the recognition of foreign qualifications, expands affordable childcare, and encourages flexible working arrangements. Employers, it adds, must actively combat bias and adopt more inclusive recruitment practices.
Illustration photo shows a seasonal worker © BELGA PHOTO JONAS D'HOLLANDER
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