This chapter will explore the position of black and minority ethnic groups in the labour market. It will argue that through a process of racism black and minority ethnic groups are less likely to occupy positions of power in the labour market. The chapter will explore how race works as a disadvantage in the labour market in which black and minority ethnic groups are more likely to be unemployed or in low-paid and insecure employment compared with their white counterparts. The chapter will explore why ethnic inequalities in the labour market have persisted over time and examine why black and minority ethnic groups are on the one hand entering higher education in high numbers, yet on the other continue to experience unemployment and disadvantages in the labour market.

In previous chapters I have discussed the increase in the numbers of black and minority ethnic students entering higher education. However, while this remains the case, black students are less likely to attend elite Russell Group universities and are less likely than white students to leave university with a 2:1 or first-class degree. There is also evidence to suggest inequalities in postgraduate study (postgraduate taught Master’s and PhD research). Recent research suggests that while there has been an expansion in postgraduate taught study, there has also been a decline in the numbers of postgraduate-taught student numbers (both UK and overseas students).,,

Qualifications obtained at undergraduate and postgraduate level have a direct influence on transitions to the labour market and social mobility within it. If black and minority ethnic students are less likely to enter postgraduate research study, this will have a direct impact on their labour market experiences.

This chapter examines the labour market experiences of black and minority ethnic groups, who find themselves positioned as outsiders in a system that continues to reward white privilege. There is evidence to suggest that inequalities in the labour market are directly related to high levels of poverty experienced by some black and minority ethnic groups. Furthermore, examining the different experiences of black and minority ethnic groups leads us to question whether equality of opportunity is a reality for some and not others.

Labour market participation

There has been a wealth of evidence to suggest that historically those from black and minority ethnic groups are less likely to be economically active compared with white groups.