The shortage of skilled workers and the emigration of highly qualified professionals is becoming a significant economic problem in many countries. Researchers have recently examined the reasons and consequences of emigration in the Eastern European country of Czech Republic. The shortage of skilled workers is particularly severe in the country, with a lack of doctors, managers, IT specialists, engineers, and other highly trained professionals. This problem is not limited to Czech Republic, as many Western European countries are also trying to attract these skilled workers. The Prague-based Research Institute for Labor and Social Affairs (RILSA) conducted a study on the migration and demand for qualified workers, comparing the demand for skilled workers in the Czech Republic with that of other EU member states.
The researchers found that the demand for skilled workers in the industries where there is already a shortage in Czech Republic is also high in other EU member states. For example, Germany alone needs around 260,000 foreign skilled workers every year. To address this issue, Germany has introduced transitional rules and a new immigration law to attract skilled workers. Czech Republic has also been trying to attract foreign skilled workers since 2003, with the Active Selection of Qualified Foreign Workers pilot project. However, the success of this project has been limited, with researchers suggesting that the proof of workplace is an additional hurdle and the offers are not attractive enough.
The researchers also found that the lack of linkage between the education system and the job market is a reason for the shortage of highly qualified professionals in Czech Republic. The average salary is not the main factor for emigration, as highly qualified professionals are more interested in acquiring new knowledge. The study also found that these professionals can earn at least three times more abroad than in Czech Republic. The government has tried to address this issue by creating a special website for foreign job seekers, but the quality and quantity of job offers are still lacking.
