Unemployment and Well-Being: The Case of High-Skilled Intra-EU Mobile Women

Empirical evidence shows a significant increase in the number of high-skilled mobile workers in the EU. Yet, little is known about the experience of unemployed female high-skilled intra-EU mobile jobseekers regarding the search for employment and wellbeing as part of labour market integration. This paper uses qualitative data collected between 2014 and 2015 (via an online survey) to explore female experience considering the challenges and opportunities on the path to employment. Findings underlined two main features: first, the inadequate availability, relevant information and access to support services for high-skilled workers; and second, a deficit of wellbeing and satisfaction by respondents amid their intra-EU mobility path, linked to circumstances of unemployment and aspirations before movement. The paper draws on these findings to advocate for the creation of work-placement programs as a “path to employment” tailored to female high-skilled intra-EU mobile jobseekers and the inclusion of psycho-social assistance through counselling and peer-support groups within standing employment services for jobseekers. These two measures are relevant in promoting female high-skilled EU mobile workers’ participation in the labour market, thus preventing loss of talent, long-term unemployment, deskilling, and encouraging better matching schemes, averting social isolation and loss of wellbeing. Persistent unemployment and deskilling can have an impact on social welfare, in particular costs related to healthcare (i.e. mental health). According to the author, wherever possible, wellbeing is to be considered, when making a cost-benefit analysis of the experiences of high-skilled mobile workers.