In Milan (Italy), Maria Belen Arce and Maximiliano Rolando lead their lives with effort. Almost two years ago, with their sons Joaquin and Valentino, left Córdoba (Argentina) with the hopes of greater professional and personal growth. Full of expectations, managed to be accepted by the community of Rozzano.
But like any new activity, the change was not easy. They should learn the language and the rules governing Italian society. As in most European countries, respect for rules and diplomacy are essential pillars of their societies.
"At first you feel great because you do a comparison of where you came from. You enjoy a holiday like, even though it is not. After one month, you start to notice things that you play against, as the language for example. You get used to other things. All the problems that arise have to go somehow solve according to the place where one is, how it feels, "says Belen. In turn, Maxi adds that "I felt shocked at almost every point he saw, transport, organization."
To Belen, the life in Rozzano and Milan is accelerated. "Very structured and routine. Everyone in his world. Living the working week with much emphasis. The weekend is seen as seeking to escape to the sea or a place to enjoy the weekend," says Maxi.
Both agree that people are distant in comparison with Argentina and there is "indifference and do not interact, each one is in their world."
In dealing with immigrants, Maxi believes that "they make a difference with immigrants. Depends on whether you come from America, Spain, all that is the European Union is all good. But with Eastern Europe and Africa are not welcome, immigration laws are stricter. "
Employment status
Following the global economic crisis, the labor market was affected in several European countries and even the U.S., significantly increasing the number of unemployed. In Italy the situation is "complicated" as Belen says, adding that "if you are working you should keep your place. And if you're looking for a job, if it’s specific is difficult. If you hav a recommendation is not very difficult. And if you find a job is that one that nobody accept". Meanwhile, Maxi believes that "active market is a total uncertainty, contracts are with time. With the crisis, the companies expect to hire cheaper people and speculate". He adds that "for those people who are seeking work, which has a specific profession is very difficult to find. You must look for several months and a trial period of one to several months".
Maxi knows the situation of many foreigners in Europe. "By comments from friends, the situation in Spain for example is more critical than in Italy at work, unemployment is very high. I was told that there is a tendency of the Spanish government and Spanish companies to recruit and get that rate of unemployment. The immigrant, if you complete a contract is very difficult to renew it. Each Spanish family has a high level of indebtedness and in these times of crisis they can’t solve it ». But it’s not the only case he knows. Maxi says that in the Netherlands is much more difficult to get used, for example. "If you're not Dutchman or do not know the language they have certain rejection of it’s outside. They are very closed" he says.
At present, the economic and social situation has deteriorated worldwide, making job opportunities and professional and economic growth to slow.
By María Fernanda González Ullmann
