Final research publication of the Nordplus Horizontal funded Career Compass project is now published, together with our partners Aalborg Institute for Development (Denmark) and VšĮ Inovacijų biuras / Innovation Office (Lithuania)!
Thousands of young people move abroad in search of better opportunities. While many find employment, too many become trapped in low-skilled work with limited access to education and long-term career progression.
Our joint research report “Horizontal Mobility without Progression: Structural Barriers to Career Progression for Young Migrant Workers in Denmark, Finland and Lithuania” identifies six interconnected barriers that repeatedly shape the experiences of young migrant workers:
• Language as a structural gatekeeper
• Time poverty and the incompatibility between work and learning
• Fragmented guidance and support systems
• Limited recognition of qualifications and prior learning
• Employer gatekeeping within labour markets
• Psychosocial strain caused by prolonged insecurity
Rather than viewing these challenges separately, the report demonstrates how they interact and reinforce one another, creating a cycle that prevents many young migrants from progressing into stable, skilled, and fulfilling careers. It also presents practical policy recommendations for governments, education providers, employers, and civil society organizations to help break this cycle.
Full report link: https://aalborgid.com/career-compass/
Special thanks to everyone who contributed their valuable insights and perspectives during 2025-2026! 
Kristina Lillqvist