Will a future where workplaces welcome refugees become the norm?

As the world observes Refugee Day, major developments are taking place in Australia. Hospitality giant Accor and the social enterprise Community Corporate have teamed up to forge new pathways for hiring refugees. If this trend continues, what might our future look like?

1. Today’s News: What is Happening?

Source:
Accor and Community Corporate Expand Refugee Hiring Pathways

Summary:

• Accor and Community Corporate have launched a new program to hire refugees in Australia.
• This initiative aims to build a diverse and inclusive workplace environment.
• It seeks to promote refugees’ social participation and positively impact the entire community.

2. Three “Structures” Behind the Background

① The “Structure” of the Problems Currently Occurring

One of the biggest challenges refugees face is securing stable employment. Barriers such as international migration policies, language barriers, and cultural differences hinder this process. These issues can be said to stem from long-standing social systems and industry practices that have not changed over the years.

② How It “Connects” to Our Lives

The refugee issue seems distant from our lives, but it is deeply intertwined with our choices as consumers and companies’ social responsibilities. This could help us consider the labor conditions under which the products and services we choose are made.

③ Us as “Choosers”

Choosing to support companies that hire refugees or participating in refugee-friendly community activities are options available to individuals. Instead of waiting for social change, changing our own perspectives and actions can ultimately lead to significant transformations.

3. IF: What Will the Future Look Like If This Continues?

Hypothesis 1 (Neutral): A Future Where Hiring Refugees Becomes the Norm

Directly, companies will start to actively hire refugees. Gradually, the labor force of refugees will be recognized as an important resource and will naturally blend into the general job market. This could lead to a change in values where diversity is accepted as a norm across society.

Hypothesis 2 (Optimistic): A Future Where Refugees Promote Corporate Growth

The diverse skills and perspectives of refugees will drive growth within companies. This will accelerate innovation and develop new business models and markets. Societal values will also shift significantly towards cooperation and coexistence that transcend borders.

Hypothesis 3 (Pessimistic): A Future Where Support for Refugees Diminishes

If the flow of support ceases, refugees may be pushed back to the periphery of society, deepening their isolation. In the long term, this could lead to increased social division and instability in economic and political spheres. There’s also a risk of a stronger trend toward exclusion rather than coexistence.

4. What Options Do We Have Now?

Action Proposals

• Support companies that actively hire refugees.
• Participate in events and activities that promote diversity in local communities.

Ideas for Perspective

• Reassess biases against refugees and embrace diversity.
• As consumers, choose companies that fulfill their social responsibilities.

5. Work: What Would You Do?

• Would you choose to work for a company that supports refugee employment?
• If you were to start activities to support refugees in your community, what kind of activities would you consider?
• How would you discuss refugee issues with friends and family?

6. Conclusion: Envisioning the Future to Choose Today

The future society is shaped by the accumulation of our choices. What kind of future do you envision? Please share your thoughts on social media. All comments are welcome!