Integrating migrants will be a challenge for Europe

Significance

The large number of arrivals since 2015 has highlighted two challenges for Europe: the removal of asylum seekers whose claims are rejected and the integration into society of those deemed to be in need of protection. What integration means and how it can be facilitated is often unclear, but governments are investing large resources into addressing the challenges.

Impacts

• Immigration can mitigate labour shortages in health and social care if job matching is improved.
• Public dissatisfaction with the process of integrating new arrivals into European societies can boost anti-immigration parties.
• Discrimination and violence against migrants can undermine their integration.