DHL Group integrates 30,000+ refugees into labour market in 10 years

DHL Group has integrated more than 30,000 refugees into the labour market since 2015 through employment, apprenticeships, and training programmes. This effort, primarily focused on the mail and parcel delivery sector, spans multiple countries and involves partnerships with the United Nations and national labour agencies.

Most of the refugees now employed by DHL Group come from Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine. Since 2015, around 350 refugees have completed apprenticeships at the company. Many began in entry-level roles such as delivery and sorting, and some have advanced to positions matching their original qualifications or have been promoted internally.

Thomas Ogilvie, Chief Human Resources Officer and Labour Director at DHL Group, said, “The rapid integration of refugees into the primary labour market is socially important and of great economic interest.” He emphasised the dual benefits for society and the economy, including easing pressure on social systems and addressing demographic challenges.

DHL Group’s support for refugee employees includes language courses, job application training, internships, and a dedicated language learning app. Mentoring programmes help young talents both professionally and in navigating everyday life, such as dealing with authorities and securing housing.

According to a 2023 study by the Refugee Integration Insights Institute, DHL Group ranked second among the 50 largest global companies in refugee integration. The company collaborates closely with international divisions and partners, including the Federal Employment Agency in Germany and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and is part of the #WithRefugees initiative.

Ricarda Brandts, Chairwoman of the UN Refugee Agency, said, “The successful integration of refugees is a shared responsibility of politics, civil society, and business. DHL Group impressively demonstrates how companies can assume social responsibility and create concrete opportunities.”

DHL Group employs approximately 600,000 people globally, with 210,000 based in Germany. Around 18,000 employees have volunteered in refugee integration efforts, contributing as translators, mentors, and local support contacts.