A report examined the strengths and weaknesses of existing policies and programmes aimed at tackling poverty and social exclusion among Roma in European Union countries, and made recommendations for future strategy.
Source: Hugh Frazer and Eric Marlier, Promoting the Social Inclusion of Roma, EU Network of Independent Experts on Social Inclusion (European Commission) | Gary Craig, United Kingdom: Promoting Social Inclusion of Roma - A Study of National Policies,
Date: 2011-Dec
A new book provided a comparative account of de facto or de jure stateless populations in the European Union, based on research from over 100 interviews in Estonia, France, Slovenia, and the United Kingdom.
Source: Caroline Sawyer and Brad Blitz (eds.), Statelessness in the European Union: Displaced, undocumented, unwanted, Cambridge University Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Dec
A new book examined where, when, and how minority-ethnic groups missed out on educational opportunities in European countries.
Source: Ian Law and Sarah Swann, Ethnicity and Education in England and Europe: Gangstas, geeks and gorjas, Ashgate Publications
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Dec
An article examined competing micro- and macro-level explanations of differential occupational attainment among immigrant groups across 28 European countries. People with a migration background did not necessarily achieve a lower labour market success than the majority: but human capital, social mobility, and cultural background explained these outcomes to different degrees, suggesting the need for tailored pathways to labour market success for each group of migrants.
Source: Florian Pichler, 'Success on European labor markets: a cross-national comparison of attainment between immigrant and majority populations', International Migration Review, Volume 45 Issue 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Dec
A new book examined theories of integration and assimilation, particularly those focused on the native-born children of immigrants in Europe and the United States of America.
Source: Jens Schneider and Maurice Crul (eds.), Theorising Integration and Assimilation, Routledge
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Dec
A report examined the detected and estimated scope of illegal migration in Europe.
Source: Christal Morehouse and Michael Blomfield, Irregular Migration in Europe, Migration Policy Institute
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Dec
The European Court of Justice ruled that an asylum-seeker could not be transferred to a member state where they risked being subjected to inhumane treatment (thereby constraining the right to send asylum-seekers back to the first European country they had entered).
Source: NS v Secretary of State for the Home Department and ME and Others v Refugee Applications Commissioner, Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Joined Cases), European Court of Justice
Links: Judgement | Guardian report
Date: 2011-Dec
An article examined the European Union legal framework on the trafficking in human beings. It focused on the illegal trafficking of adults against their will, and the consequences of it for the United Kingdom law-enforcement authorities.
Source: Maria Catherine O'Neill, 'The EU legal framework on trafficking in human beings: where to from here – the UK perspective', Journal of Contemporary European Research, Volume 7 Number 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Dec
The European Commission proposed a reinforcement of practical, technical, and financial co-operation in the field of asylum, designed to promote the completion of the common European asylum system by 2012.
Source: Enhanced Intra-EU Solidarity in the Field of Asylum: An EU agenda for better responsibility-sharing and more mutual trust, European Commission
Links: Communication | European Commission press release
Date: 2011-Dec
A report examined how countries in Europe had often turned to regularizations to address illegal immigration. More than 5 million people had been regularized in Europe since 1996 through a variety of methods.
Source: Kate Brick, Regularizations in the European Union: The contentious policy tool, Migration Policy Institute
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Dec
An article examined the assumption that 'macro level' political variables such as welfare state systems and immigration regimes shaped the conditions encountered by young immigrants, and thus had an impact on their school performance. The results showed that native students benefited from social-democratic welfare states and immigration-friendly integration regimes, whereas immigrant students underperformed under these types of regimes.
Source: Flavia Fossati, 'The effect of integration and social democratic welfare states on immigrants? educational attainment: a multilevel estimate', Journal of European Social Policy, Volume 21 Number 5
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Dec
An article examined the extent to which increased ethnic heterogeneity in European countries would reduce public support for welfare policy (following the experience in the United States of America), based on survey data from the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Denmark.
Source: Christian Albrekt Larsen, 'Ethnic heterogeneity and public support for welfare: is the American experience replicated in Britain, Sweden and Denmark?', Scandinavian Political Studies, Volume 34 Issue 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Dec
A paper examined the role of ethnic networks in the location decision of migrants to the European Union at the regional level. A 'substantially positive' effect was found of ethnic networks on the location decision of migrants.
Source: Klaus Nowotny and Dieter Pennerstorfer, Ethnic Networks and the Location Choice of Migrants in Europe, Working Paper 415/2011, Austrian Institute of Economic Research
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Dec
A new book examined the legal, political, and educational challenges posed by migration-related religious, ethnic, and cultural diversity in European countries.
Source: Anna Triandafyllidou, Tariq Modood, and Nasar Meer (eds.), European Multiculturalisms: Cultural, religious and ethnic challenges, Edinburgh University Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Dec
A paper examined the skill structures of immigrants and their labour market integration in the different European countries, their position in the wage distribution, and the situation of their children. Immigrants – in particular those from non-European Union countries – were severely disadvantaged in most countries.
Source: Christian Dustmann and Tommaso Frattini, Immigration: The European Experience, Discussion Paper 22, Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (University College London)
Links: Discussion paper
Date: 2011-Dec
A report examined what city authorities in Europe were doing to attract ethnic entrepreneurs into their established business communities.
Source: Jan Rath and Anna Swagerman (with Hubert Krieger, Anna Ludwinek, and Lisa Pickering), Promoting Ethnic Entrepreneurship in European Cities, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions
Date: 2011-Dec
A report said that hate crimes continued to be a serious problem across Europe – with numerous instances in 2010 of intimidation, threats, vandalism, arson, assault, and murder, targeting individuals or groups because of their ethnicity, religion, or other status.
Source: Hate Crimes in the OSCE Region: Incidents and responses, Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe
Links: Report | OSCE press release
Date: 2011-Nov
An article examined recent judgments of the Court of Justice of the European Union relating to the right to family reunification. EU citizens unable to establish a link with EU law were often subject to stricter family reunification requirements compared with their migrant compatriots and even certain third country nationals. This situation was difficult to accept in light of the principles of legal certainty, equality, and the protection of fundamental rights.
Source: Peter Van Elsuwege and Dimitry Kochenov, 'On the limits of judicial intervention: EU citizenship and family reunification rights', European Journal of Migration and Law, Volume 13 Number 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Nov
A new book examined the impact of the European Union on the policies and politics of immigrant integration in its member states. It considered whether the EU could be a force for good in a policy area hitherto thought to be a matter for national discretion.
Source: Suzanne Mulcahy, Europe's Migrant Policies: Illusions of integration, Palgrave Macmillan
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Nov
A report said that family migration policies in Europe were too often dominated by negative stereotyping of migrants. A number of countries had argued that there was a need to protect migrant women against forced marriages, and had used this to impose 'totally disproportionate' restrictions. The report called for integration to be treated within a rights-based perspective that also recognized the diversity of family migrants.
Source: Eleonore Kofman, Family Reunion Legislation in Europe: Is It Discriminatory for Migrant Women?, European Network of Migrant Women
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Nov
An article examined the relationship between (on the one hand) transnational migration, gender, and care regimes in Europe, and (on the other) migrants' arrangements for labour and care.
Source: Helma Lutz and Ewa Palenga-Mollenbeck, 'Care, gender and migration: towards a theory of transnational domestic work migration in Europe', Journal of Contemporary European Studies, Volume 19 Issue 3
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Nov
A paper examined the impact of unemployment benefits on immigration to European countries. All estimates indicated that flows within the European Union were not related to unemployment benefit generosity.
Source: Corrado Giulietti, Martin Guzi, Martin Kahanec, and Klaus Zimmermann, Unemployment Benefits and Immigration: Evidence from the EU, Discussion Paper 6075, Institute for the Study of Labor (Bonn)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Nov
An article examined the content of citizenship tests in a range of European countries (including the United Kingdom). Neither any hypothesis from the existing citizenship and civic integration literature, nor the characteristics of a citizenship policy regime, could explain the content of all the tests.
Source: Ines Michalowski, 'Required to assimilate? The content of citizenship tests in five countries', Citizenship Studies, Volume 15 Issue 6-7
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Nov
A paper said that the European Union enlargement during 2004-2007 had not produced any negative effects or disruptions in the labour markets of the member states. All three agents – the migrants, the receiving countries, and the sending countries – had gained from labour mobility.
Source: Amelie Constant, Sizing It Up: Labor migration lessons of the EU enlargement to 27, Discussion Paper 6119, Institute for the Study of Labor (Bonn)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Nov
A study provided an overview of the situation of immigrants in the European Union, with a particular focus on the process of their integration and its impact on the labour market.
Source: Werner Eichhorst, Tommaso Frattini, Corrado Giulietti, Martin Guzi, Klaus Nowotny, Michael Kendzia, Peter Huber, Paola Monti, and Barbara Vandeweghe, The Integration of Migrants and Its Effects on the Labour Market, Research Report. 40, Institute for the Study of Labor (Bonn)
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Nov
A report examined the role of local and regional authorities in preserving the dignity and access to fundamental rights of undocumented immigrants in the European Union.
Source: Sergio Carrera and Joanna Parkin, Protecting and Delivering Fundamental Rights of Irregular Migrants at Local and Regional Levels in the European Union, Centre for European Policy Studies (Brussels)
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Nov
A think-tank report examined the responses of online supporters of European populist political parties and movements, looking at the reasons why people were motivated to join. It called on mainstream politicians to respond and address concerns over immigration and cultural identity without succumbing to xenophobic solutions.
Source: Jamie Bartlett, Jonathan Birdwell, and Mark Littler, The New Face of Digital Populism, Demos
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Nov
A new book examined how young adult migrants in Europe experienced the complex processes of inclusion and exclusion in different life arenas such as work, school, neighbourhood, family, and peer groups. It highlighted the way in which individual factors such as class background, country of origin, and gender interacted with the different juridical, political, and socio-economic characteristics of the various host societies.
Source: Katrine Fangen, Thomas Johansson, and Nils Hammaren (eds.), Young Migrants: Exclusion and belonging in Europe, Palgrave Macmillan
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Nov
A new book examined migration and health in the European Union. It considered the rights of migrants to health; problems in their access to health services; and the challenges and opportunities in monitoring migrant health. It discussed the policy response to date and the need for culturally responsive health services.
Source: Bernd Rechel, Philipa Mladovsky, Walter Deville, Barbara Rijks, Roumyana Petrova-Benedict, and Martin McKee (eds.), Migration and Health in the European Union, Open University Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Nov
A paper examined the role of the 'welfare magnet hypothesis' for migrants to the European Union at the regional level. The regional location decisions of migrants were mostly governed by income opportunities, labour market conditions, ethnic networks, and a common language. There was no strong evidence for the welfare magnet hypothesis in the EU: but the income tax system did have a 'large and consistent' effect on locational choice.
Source: Klaus Nowotny, Welfare Magnets, Taxation and the Location Decisions of Migrants to the EU, Working Paper 393, Austrian Institute of Economic Research
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Oct
An article said that strict employment protection legislation gave immigrants a comparative advantage relative to natives in European countries. Immigrants were often less aware of employment protection regulations and less likely to claim their rights – which might create a gap between the costs for employers of hiring a native relative to hiring an immigrant.
Source: Filipa Sa, ' Does employment protection help immigrants? Evidence from European labor markets', Labour Economics, Volume 18 Issue 5
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Oct
A new book examined the gendered aspects of educational experiences and outcomes of migrant children, and particularly young migrant women, in 5 European countries (including the United Kingdom).
Source: Josie Christodoulou et al., Young Migrant Women in Secondary Education: Promoting integration and mutual understanding through dialogue and exchange, University of Nicosia Press
Links: Book text | EWL press release
Date: 2011-Oct
A report examined access to healthcare for irregular migrants in the European Union. Irregular migrants often faced increased risk to their health from poor living and working conditions. At the same time their access to healthcare was limited due to legal, economic, and practical obstacles. Excluding irregular migrants from healthcare endangered their lives and well-being, increased the cost of future emergency treatment, and posed a health risk to the wider community.
Source: Migrants in an Irregular Situation: Access to healthcare in 10 European Union member states, Fundamental Rights Agency (European Commission)
Links: Report | FRA press release
Date: 2011-Oct
A paper examined citizenship policies and naturalization rates in European countries. Restricting access to citizenship was related to lower naturalization rates.
Source: David Reichel, Do Legal Regulations Hinder Naturalisation? Citizenship policies and naturalisation rates in Europe, Working Paper 2011/51, Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies, European University Institute (Florence)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Sep
A report examined discrimination and racism towards ethnic, linguistic, national, and other minorities within Europe.
Source: Respect for and Protection of Persons Belonging to Minorities 2008-2010, Fundamental Rights Agency (European Commission)
Links: Report | FRA press release
Date: 2011-Sep
An article examined the significance of a human rights approach to access to healthcare, based on a comparative study of healthcare provision for irregular migrants in France and the United Kingdom.
Source: Sylvie da Lomba, 'Irregular migrants and the human right to health care: a case-study of health-care provision for irregular migrants in France and the UK', International Journal of Law in Context, Volume 7 Issue 3
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Sep
A new book examined the treatment of asylum-seekers in the European Union. Member states had decided to increase co-operation on asylum issues: but this led to questions concerning the human rights protection of asylum-seekers, both at the moment they applied for asylum at the border and during the application procedure.
Source: Helena Raulus and Flora Goudappel, The Future of Asylum in the European Union: Problems, proposals and human rights, TMC Asser Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Sep
A new book examined immigration and immigrant inclusion policies in 10 European countries, looking at how policies are formed and subsequently implemented.
Source: Giovanna Zincone, Rinus Penninx, and Maren Borkert (eds.), Migration Policymaking in Europe: The dynamics of actors and contexts in past and present, Amsterdam University Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Sep
An article examined the relationship between ethnic diversity and informal social capital in Europe. There was a direct positive effect of ethnic diversity at the country level on informal helping. At the regional level, ethnic diversity increased the likelihood of inter-group contact that in turn was positively related to both informal social meeting and helping. Perceived ethnic threat had a negative effect on informal social meeting.
Source: Michael Savelkoul, Maurice Gesthuizen, and Peer Scheepers, 'Explaining relationships between ethnic diversity and informal social capital across European countries and regions: tests of constrict, conflict and contact theory', Social Science Research, Volume 40 Issue 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Sep
A report examined skills mismatch among migrants and ethnic minorities in Europe, and its impacts.
Source: Migrants, Minorities, Mismatch? Skill mismatch among migrants and ethnic minorities in Europe, Research Paper 16, European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training
Links: Report | ECDVT press release
Date: 2011-Sep
A think-tank report examined the rise of public support for 'populist extremist' parties in Europe, and recommended ways in which mainstream political parties could respond to the challenge.
Source: Matthew Goodwin, Right Response: Understanding and countering populist extremism in Europe, Chatham House
Links: Report | Summary | Guardian report
Date: 2011-Sep
A report examined the concepts and approaches to racial integration that were in use across Europe. It considered whether conceptual changes would lead to a better understanding of, and more effective policies on, integration. It proposed defining integration in terms of the 'engagement of citizens and residents in the promotion of the well-being of all in a diverse society', and analyzed examples of promising approaches and effective instruments.
Source: Kurt Richard Brekke, Rosella Levaggi, Luigi Siciliani, and Odd Rune Straume, Integration Beyond Migration: Kicking off the debate, European Network Against Racism
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Sep
An article examined the political and legal 'construction' of irregular migration across selected member states of the European Union. Regulations that were meant to prevent unwanted migration often had unintended side-effects and instead encouraged irregular migration.
Source: Franck Duvell, 'Paths into irregularity: the legal and political construction of irregular migration', European Journal of Migration and Law, Volume 13 Number 3
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Aug
A report examined how issues of immigration were politicized in European countries in times of economic crisis. The welfare state played an important role in cultural and social integration – which could differ significantly from economic integration – and could explain why social cohesion and the state of the economy were not directly linked.
Source: Didier Ruedin and Gianni D Amato, Social Cohesion Challenges in Europe, Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies (European University Institute, Florence)
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Aug
A factsheet provided an overview of European Union education policies and their link to combating racism in education.
Source: EU Education Policies and Their Impact on Racism in Education, European Network Against Racism
Links: Factsheet
Date: 2011-Aug
An article examined approaches to the regularization of irregular immigrants in European countries.
Source: Albert Kraler, 'Fixing, adjusting, regulating, protecting human rights – the shifting uses of regularisations in the European Union', European Journal of Migration and Law, Volume 13 Number 3
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Aug
A report presented an overview of the employment and working conditions of nationals in Europe with a foreign background, and of nationals with a different ethnic affiliation. It highlighted the scarcity of relevant data on these groups in European Union countries and the different interpretation of EU legislation on ethnic data collection.
Source: Miet Lamberts and Fernando Pauwels, Working Conditions of Nationals with a Foreign Background, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions
Date: 2011-Aug
A report presented the findings and recommendations of a meeting (held in December 2010) on the issue of how to improve the monitoring of racial/ethnic diversity in employment in European countries.
Source: Monitoring Diversity: Second ENAR ad hoc expert group on promoting equality in employment, European Network Against Racism
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Aug
A new book examined how irregular migration systems had developed over time to interact with changing European labour markets, welfare regimes, and immigration policies. It looked at the strategies and mechanisms that allowed illegal immigrants to avoid detection, generate an income, and access necessary services.
Source: Giuseppe Sciortino and Michael Bommes (eds.), Foggy Social Structures: Irregular migration, European labour markets and the welfare state, Amsterdam University Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Aug
An article examined whether processes of social exclusion and discrimination could account for migrants' confidence in public institutions in European countries. It was found that the performance of public institutions mattered less to migrants than to the native population, in particular for those who saw themselves as an ethnic minority or members of a group that had faced discrimination.
Source: Antje Rodera and Peter Muhlaua, 'Discrimination, exclusion and immigrants' confidence in public institutions in Europe', European Societies, Volume 13 Issue 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Aug
An article examined the relationship between the size of the immigrant population in Europe, how native people perceived this size, and anti-immigrant attitudes. The perceived size of an immigrant population had an impact on anti-immigrant prejudices, but the real size did not.
Source: Zan Strabac, 'It is the eyes and not the size that matter', European Societies, Volume 13 Issue 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Aug
A paper examined how European Union membership shaped United Kingdom migration policy.
Source: Cathryn Costello, UK Migration Policy and EU Law, Migration Observatory (University of Oxford)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Aug
A report examined the quality of life in ethnically diverse neighbourhoods in 15 European Union countries. Living in ethnically diverse neighbourhoods contributed to higher levels of social isolation and ethnic tension, and a poorer quality of life.
Source: Rhys Davies, Clair Wilkins, Eric Harrison, Elissa Sibley, and David Owen, Quality of Life in Ethnically Diverse Neighbourhoods, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions
Date: 2011-Aug
A study examined ethnic differentiation in schools, and their environments in multi-ethnic communities, in 9 member states of the European Union (including the United Kingdom). It highlighted the factors behind the 'continuous production and reproduction of ethnic distinctions' that worked to the detriment of young people from minority-ethnic backgrounds.
Source: Julia Szalai (ed.), Contested Issues of Social Inclusion Through Education in Multiethnic Communities Across Europe, European Commission
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Aug
An article examined 'policy discourses' in relation to irregular migration in Europe.
Source: Bastian Vollmer, 'Policy discourses on irregular migration in the EU – "number games" and "political games"', European Journal of Migration and Law, Volume 13 Number 3
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Aug
An article examined the approach to disability adopted by the Common European Asylum System, and the barriers encountered by persons with disabilities seeking refuge in the European Union.
Source: Clara Straimer, 'Between protection and assistance: is there refuge for asylum seekers with disabilities in Europe?', Disability & Society, Volume 26 Number 5
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Aug
A report called for broader rights for domestic workers in the European Union in order to counteract the frequent abuse of irregular migrants employed in domestic work.
Source: Migrants in an Irregular Situation Employed in Domestic Work: Fundamental rights challenges for the European Union and its member states, Fundamental Rights Agency (European Commission)
Links: Report | FRA press release
Date: 2011-Jul
A study identified sectors experiencing labour shortages in the European Union member states, outlined the national strategies for addressing labour market needs with migrant workers from outside the EU, and considered the perceived effectiveness of those strategies.
Source: European Migration Network, Satisfying Labour Demand Through Migration, European Commission
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jul
A report said that integration policies in Europe should be defined in terms of the engagement of citizens and residents in the promotion of the well-being of all in a diverse society. It described and analyzed examples of promising approaches and effective instruments.
Source: Alexandre Kirchberger and Jan Niessen, Integration Beyond Migration: Kicking off the debate, European Network Against Racism
Links: Report | MPG press release
Date: 2011-Jul
A report examined progress by European countries in ratifying the international convention designed to protect the rights of migrant workers and their families. It said that the obstacles cited – whether legal, administrative or financial – were not insurmountable, and that ratification was a question of political will at the national level.
Source: Marie d Auchamp, Migrant Workers' Rights in Europe, Regional Office for Europe, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jul
A report examined the number and composition of asylum-seekers in developed (OECD) countries, the political and social reaction to them, and the evolution of policy. A more integrated European Union-wide strategy would better serve the interests both of its citizens and of refugees.
Source: Timothy Hatton, Seeking Asylum: Trends and policies in the OECD, Centre for Economic Policy Research
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jul
The European Commission adopted an 'agenda' for the integration of third-country nationals, designed to enhance the economic, social, and cultural benefits of migration in Europe. The agenda emphasized migrants' full participation in all aspects of collective life and highlighted the key role of local authorities.
Source: European Agenda for the Integration of Third-Country Nationals, European Commission
Links: Agenda | European Commission press release
Date: 2011-Jul
A paper examined the occupation-qualification mismatch of immigrants in Europe as compared with the native-born population. Immigrants' mismatch relative to native-born people was 'important and pervasive' across all countries: immigrants were more likely to be both under- and over-educated for the jobs that they performed.
Source: Mariya Aleksynska and Ahmed Tritah, Occupation-Education Mismatch of Immigrant Workers in Europe: Context and policies, Working Paper 2011-16, Centre D'Etudes Prospectives et D'Informations Internationales (Paris)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jul
A report highlighted persistent patterns of inequality between (on the one hand) migrants and minority-ethnic groups in the labour market and (on the other) the overall majority populations of European Union countries. In particular, migrant and minority-ethnic women faced significant structural disadvantages in the labour market.
Source: Migrants, Minorities and Employment: Exclusion and discrimination in the 27 member states of the European Union – Update 2003-2008, Fundamental Rights Agency (European Commission)
Links: Report | FRA press release
Date: 2011-Jul
A paper examined the educational achievements of second-generation immigrants in developed (OECD) countries. Educational achievement (measured as test scores in PISA achievement tests) of children of immigrants was quite heterogeneous across countries, and strongly related to achievements of the parent generation.
Source: Christian Dustmann, Tommaso Frattini, and Gianandrea Lanzara, Educational Achievement of Second Generation Immigrants: An international comparison, Discussion Paper 16/11, Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (University College London)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jul
A report examined recent developments in migration movements and policies in developed (OECD) countries. During 2009 migration into OECD countries fell by 7 per cent on average: but migration to the United Kingdom rose by 14 per cent, the largest increase of the 6 countries to experience a rise in migration.
Source: International Migration Outlook 2011, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Jul
A paper examined the gap between the comprehensive set of rights for migrant workers stipulated in international human rights law and the much more limited rights granted by national laws and policies in high- and middle-income countries. Programmes that were designed to admit higher-skilled migrants were more open, and granted more rights, than those targeting lower-skilled migrants. For upper high-income countries, there was evidence that programmes that were more open to admitting migrant workers also imposed greater restrictions on specific migrant rights.
Source: Martin Ruhs, Openness, Skills and Rights: An empirical analysis of labour immigration programmes in 46 high- and middle- income countries, Working Paper 88, Centre on Migration, Policy and Society (University of Oxford)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jul
A paper examined the European Union's approach to co-operation with civil society organizations in relation to migration policy.
Source: Natalia Banulescu-Bogdan, The Role of Civil Society in EU Migration Policy: Perspectives on the European Union s engagement in its neighborhood, Migration Policy Institute
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jun
An article examined public views about granting equal rights to legal immigrants, and citizenship status to second-generation immigrants, in 20 European countries.
Source: Alin Ceobanu and Xavier Escandell, 'Paths to citizenship? Public views on the extension of rights to legal and second-generation immigrants in Europe', British Journal of Sociology, Volume 62 Issue 2
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Jun
The European Union published a statement on migration and asylum issues. It said that there was a need to take forward and intensify work in a number of areas in order to put in place a more long-term sustainable strategy. Control and surveillance of external borders rested with member states which, in performing this function, were also acting in the common interest of all member states. Assistance should continue to be provided to member states in protecting external border sections subject to exceptionally high migratory pressures.
Source: Council Conclusions on Borders, Migration and Asylum: Stocktaking and the way forward, European Union
Links: Statement
Date: 2011-Jun
A report examined ethno-religious tensions and conflict in relation to Europe's Muslim minorities, based on five country case studies (for Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom). It considered the societal and policy landscape in these countries pertaining to 'multiculturalism' and 'assimilation'.
Source: Michael Emerson (ed.), Interculturalism: Europe and its Muslims in search of sound societal models, Centre for European Policy Studies (Brussels)
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jun
A new book examined ethnic diversity in European labour markets, and what policy-makers could do to nurture and encourage its benefits.
Source: Martin Kahanec and Klaus Zimmermann (eds.), Ethnic Diversity in European Labor Markets: Challenges and solutions, Edward Elgar Publishing
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Jun
A report said that racism and intolerance were becoming rooted in European societies as the economic crisis gave strength to extremist messages. Racism was no longer limited to the fringes of society, and mainstream politicians were increasingly using xenophobic and anti-Muslim arguments and calling referendums targeting non-citizens and religious minorities.
Source: Annual Report on ECRI s Activities Covering the Period from 1 January to 31 December 2010, European Commission against Racism and Intolerance/Council of Europe
Links: Report | Council of Europe press release
Date: 2011-Jun
A paper examined the challenge to social cohesion in European countries posed by immigration and a more diverse population. The welfare state played an important role in cultural and social integration.
Source: Gianni D Amato and Didier Ruedin, Social Cohesion Challenges in Europe, European University Institute (Florence)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jun
A study examined the scope and implications of Article 80 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, relating to the principle of solidarity in the field of border checks, asylum, and immigration. It outlined some practical solutions for the implementation of new solidarity mechanisms in the field of European Union immigration and asylum policies.
Source: Dirk Vanheule, Joanne van Selm, and Christina Boswell, The Implementation of Article 80 TFEU on the Principle of Solidarity and Fair Sharing of Responsibility, Including Its Financial Implications, Between the Member States in the Field of Border Checks, Asylum and Immigration, Directorate General for Internal Policies/European Parliament
Links: Report
Date: 2011-May
A new book examined whether the problematic access of irregular migrants to human rights protection was an issue of implementation, or whether was it due to the inherent characteristics of the concept of human rights. It focused on the situation of irregular migrants in Europe and the United States.
Source: Marie-Benedicte Dembour and Toby Kelly (eds.), Are Human Rights for Migrants? Critical reflections on the status of irregular migrants in Europe and the United States, Routledge
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-May
An article examined the reasons behind the introduction of language and knowledge tests for applicants for a permanent residence permit or long-term resident status in a sample of European Union member states (including the United Kingdom). It also looked at the effects of the tests on the integration process of third-country nationals admitted for non-temporary stay.
Source: Anita Bocker and Tineke Strik, 'Language and knowledge tests for permanent residence rights: help or hindrance for integration?', European Journal of Migration and Law, Volume 13 Number 2
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-May
A report examined the implications of popular concern over culture, migration, and identity for the future of European social democracy.
Source: Tim Bale et al., Exploring the Cultural Challenges to Social Democracy: Anti-migration populism, identity and community in an age of insecurity, Policy Network
Date: 2011-May
A report identified ways for European Union countries to use immigration policy to deal with the challenges brought about by an ageing population, rapid technological change, and economic restructuring. It outlined an approach to immigration growth, and examined short- and long-term trends in how the immigration system supported economic growth and prosperity.
Source: Koen Jonkers, Immigration and European Innovation Systems: Challenges for economic growth and prosperity, Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies
Links: Report
Date: 2011-May
A paper examined the impact of the size, skills, and diversity of immigrant populations on the innovativeness of host regions in Europe.
Source: Ceren Ozgen, Peter Nijkamp, and Jacques Poot, Immigration and Innovation in European Regions, Discussion Paper 5676, Institute for the Study of Labor (Bonn)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-May
The European Court of Justice ruled that European Union citizens who had never exercised their right of free movement could not invoke EU citizenship to regularize the residence of their non-EU spouse. Where such persons were not deprived of their right to move and reside within the territory of the member states, their situation had no connexion with EU law.
Source: Shirley McCarthy v Secretary of State for the Home Department, European Court of Justice
Links: Judgement | ECJ press release
Date: 2011-May
The European Commission published a policy statement on migration in the wake of civil unrest in north African countries. It sought to differentiate between economic migrants trying to enter the European Union illegally, refugees, asylum-seekers, and temporarily displaced persons who wished to return to their home countries. It set the objective of a common European approach to asylum-seekers by 2012.
Source: Communication on Migration, European Commission
Links: Statement | European Commission press release | EurActiv report | CEPR paper
Date: 2011-May
A report examined whether the European Union had developed the appropriate means to achieve harmonization in the area of asylum policy. The most pressing challenge was that of preventing the economic crisis from turning into a protection crisis at the expense of refugee rights.
Source: Vincent Chetail and Celine Bauloz, The European Union and the Challenges of Forced Migration: From economic crisis to protection crisis?, Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies, European University Institute (Florence)
Links: Report
Date: 2011-May
A study examined existing asylum instruments within the European Union regarding the distribution of refugees between member states, the eligibility for protection, the status of protected persons regarding detention and vulnerability, and asylum procedures. It considered the long-term evolution of the common European asylum system, including the accession of the EU to the Geneva Convention.
Source: Marion Jaillard et al., Setting up a Common European Asylum System: Report on the application of existing instruments and proposals for the new system, Directorate General for Internal Policies/European Parliament
Links: Report
Date: 2011-May
A report examined European cities policies and programmes to promote ethnic entrepreneurship, as part of efforts to help migrants integrate and boost local economic development.
Source: Hubert Krieger (ed.), Promoting Ethnic Entrepreneurship in European Cities, European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions
Links: Report
Date: 2011-May
An article examined the gap in support for multiculturalism between Europeans who claimed minority heritage and those who did not – taking into account levels of support for extreme right-wing parties. High levels of support for extreme right-wing parties appeared to have a polarizing effect, heightening awareness of personal heritage and making ethnic identity more salient in attitudes towards multiculturalism.
Source: Jessica Sprague-Jones, 'Extreme right-wing vote and support for multiculturalism in Europe', Ethnic and Racial Studies, Volume 34 Number 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-May
A paper examined patterns of co-operation between European Union member states in the area of short-stay visa policy. It identified 'regional imagined communities' – co-operation based on the existence of shared identities owing to regional commonalities in language and state-building histories.
Source: Mogens Hobolth, European Visa Cooperation: Interest politics and regional imagined communities, LEQS Paper 34, European Institute (London School of Economics)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-May
An article said that European countries' policies of accelerated removal were leading to the erosion of the legal rights of migrants and failed asylum-seekers; and that force was being used more often in their deportations.
Source: Liz Fekete, 'Accelerated removals: the human cost of EU deportation policies', Race and Class, Volume 52 Number 4
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Apr
A paper examined the macro-economic impact on both host and home countries of the increased labour mobility that had resulted from the European Union enlargements in 2004 and 2007. The macro-economic impact on the EU as a whole was expected to be negligible, possibly raising the long-run level of potential output by about 0.1 per cent.
Source: Tatiana Fic, Dawn Holland, and Pawel Paluchowski, Labour Mobility Within the EU: The impact of enlargement and the functioning of the transitional arrangements, Discussion Paper 379, National Institute for Economic and Social Research
Links: Discussion paper | BBC report | Telegraph report
Date: 2011-Apr
A report examined examples of good practice in collaboration between the police, social workers, and immigrants in five European countries (including the United Kingdom).
Source: Elli Heikkila, Manon Danker, Emilio Jose Gomez Ciriano, Hugh McLaughlin, and Henny Reubsaet (eds.), Working Together for Better Integration: Immigrants, police and social work, Institute of Migration (Turku, Finland)
Date: 2011-Apr
A paper examined the 'incoherencies' in European Union labour immigration policies, and the challenges of ensuring a global rights-based approach to migration.
Source: Sergio Carrera, Ana s Faure Atger, Elspeth Guild, and Dora Kostakopoulou, Labour Immigration Policy in the EU: A renewed agenda for Europe 2020, Policy Brief 240, Centre for European Policy Studies (Brussels)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Apr
An article examined the relationship between ethnic diversity and social trust at both the national and the local level in Europe. Ethnic diversity – measured in terms of the size of the non-western immigrant population – did not appear to be associated with lower levels of trust in European societies.
Source: Henrik Lolle and Lars Torpe, 'Growing ethnic diversity and social trust in European societies', Comparative European Politics, Volume 9 Issue 2
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Apr
A paper examined whether ethnically mixed schools contributed to inter-ethnic tolerance, trust, and community cohesion in England, Sweden, and Germany. Greater diversity in the classroom did not always lead to increased ethnic tolerance among pupils: young white people were less well disposed towards immigrants when minority-ethnic groups were doing well.
Source: Jan Germen Janmaat, Classroom Diversity and Its Relation to Tolerance, Trust and Participation in England, Sweden and Germany, LLAKES Research Paper 4, Centre for Learning and Life Chances in Knowledge Economies and Societies
Links: Paper | IOE press release
Date: 2011-Apr
A report examined a range of measures taken by non-governmental organizations and trade unions aimed at countering trafficking and forced labour in Europe.
Source: Klara Skrivankova and Jeroen Beirnaert, Never Work Alone: Trade unions and NGOs joining forces to combat forced labour and trafficking in Europe, International Trade Union Confederation/Anti-Slavery International
Links: Report | ITUC press release
Date: 2011-Mar
A journal issue examined the naturalization of immigrant populations in developed countries. Separate chapters considered: the legal framework on economic migration and naturalization in the United Kingdom, highlighting recent trends in policies and citizenship take-up; the available evidence on immigrants' take-up of host country citizenship, and the extent to which this affected their socio-economic outcomes, across European Union countries; integration measures and/or requirements imposed on non-EU nationals in EU countries; and the relationship between the citizenship status of immigrants in western Europe and their social integration.
Source: Naturalisation: A Passport for the Better Integration of Immigrants?, OECD Social Issues/Migration/Health, Volume 2011 Number 4
Links: Table of contents
Date: 2011-Mar
A report examined the outcomes for immigrant integration programmes in European Union countries. Some countries were using integration funding as a stop-gap measure for more vulnerable migrant populations or even maintaining their integration objectives in the face of severe economic hardship (such as Portugal and Sweden): but others were using the austerity measures to cut integration funding altogether (such as in the Netherlands and, to some extent, the United Kingdom).
Source: Elizabeth Collett, Immigrant Integration in Europe in a Time of Austerity, Transatlantic Council on Migration
Links: Report | TCM press release
Date: 2011-Mar
A paper examined whether temporary and circular migration policies were part of the solution to sustaining Europe's economic and social models as its societies aged.
Source: Sheena McLoughlin and Rainer Munz, with Rudolf Bunte, Goran Hultin, Wolfgang Muller and Ronald Skeldon, Temporary and Circular Migration: Opportunities and Challenges, Working Paper 35, European Policy Centre
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Mar
An article examined the policy adopted by some European Union member states of requiring immigrants from outside the EU to participate in language or integration courses after arrival, or to pass a language test as a condition for a visa for family reunification.
Source: Kees Groenendijk, 'Pre-departure integration strategies in the European Union: integration or immigration policy?', European Journal of Migration and Law, Volume 13 Number 1
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Mar
A report said that racism remained a deep-rooted problem in Europe in a broad range of areas – including employment, housing, education, health, policing, access to goods and services, and the media. The United Kingdom national report said that race intersected with a variety of other factors such as gender, class, and religion – with the result that disadvantage and discrimination could affect people's opportunities in life in complex ways.
Source: Jean-Pierre Gauci, Racism in Europe: ENAR Shadow Report 2009/2010, European Network Against Racism | Sarah Isal, Klara Schmitz, and Hannah Cooper, Racism and Discriminatory Practices in the United Kingdom, European Network Against Racism
Links: Report | ENAR press release | UK report
Date: 2011-Mar
A new book examined how European societies could more effectively promote the active engagement of immigrants and their children in political and civic life.
Source: Laura Morales and Marco Giugni (eds.), Social Capital, Political Participation and Migration in Europe: Making multicultural democracy work?, Palgrave Macmillan
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Mar
A new book examined the issues of security and insecurity raised by migration for European states, their citizens, and migrants themselves.
Source: Gabriella Lazaridis (ed.), Security, Insecurity and Migration in Europe, Ashgate Publications
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Mar
A paper examined an index used to establish the extent to which equality principles were being applied to immigrants to 31 countries in Europe and North America.
Source: Jan Niessen, Using MIPEX for Improving Integration Policies, Migration Policy Group
Date: 2011-Feb
A briefing paper examined the risk of poverty and deprivation among the migrant population of the European Union, and the trends in poverty rates between 2004 and 2007. It also explored the definition of social exclusion in the EU 2020 strategy, including an analysis of the overlap between the measures of poverty, deprivation, and low work-intensity.
Source: Orsolya Lelkes and Eszter Zolyomi, Poverty and Social Exclusion of Migrants in the European Union, European Centre for Social Welfare Policy and Research (Vienna)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Feb
A report examined the issues surrounding international labour migration, focusing on migration from the developing world to European Union member states. It made a set of recommendations to governments and civil society organizations on how to improve migrants' rights.
Source: International Migration: The Search for Decent Work, SOLIDAR
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Feb
A paper examined the relationship between ethnic identity and labour market outcomes for non-European Union immigrants in Europe, drawing on the European Social Survey. There was a penalty to be paid for immigrants with a strong identity: first-generation immigrants were about 17 per cent less likely to be employed than 'native' Europeans, whereas second-generation immigrants had a probability of being employed that was not statistically different.
Source: Alberto Bisin, Eleonora Patacchini, Thierry Verdier, and Yves Zenou, Ethnic Identity and Labor-Market Outcomes of Immigrants in Europe, Discussion Paper 03/11, Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration (University College London)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Feb
A report examined two local authorities' responses – in Manchester (United Kingdom) and Copenhagen (Denmark) – to increased ethnic diversity. Nationally imposed approaches were often unhelpful, and the rhetoric of ethnic diversity policy-making could stifle local state actors' work and their ability to formulate policy responses that were creative and relevant to the local economy and population.
Source: Jessica Smith, Where Next for Ethnic Diversity Policymaking at the Local Level? Lessons from a comparative study of Manchester and Copenhagen, Centre for Local Economic Strategies
Links: Report | CLES press release
Date: 2011-Feb
An article examined family migration in Europe, focusing on the experiences of undocumented migrants in seven European countries. Greater protection (in terms of status) and encouragement (in terms of involvement in the civic society) were needed for migrant families in order to enable integration and combat the disadvantage and discrimination experienced by this group.
Source: Anna Paraskevopoulou, 'Undocumented worker transitions: family migration', International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Volume 31 Issue 1/2
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Feb
An article examined controversies surrounding the wearing of the veil by Muslim women in Europe. The historical vestiges of discrimination in immigration and citizenship laws persisted in the scrutiny of the cultural affiliations and practices of aspiring immigrants and citizens.
Source: Siobhan Mullally, 'Civic integration, migrant women and the veil: at the limits of rights?', The Modern Law Review, Volume 74 Issue 1
Links: Abstract
Date: 2011-Jan
A report examined the labour market and social exclusion risks of immigrants and ethnic minorities (especially Roma people) within the European Union. It presented an overview of the latest policies on immigration and ethnic minorities, and described and commented on some ongoing debates on the topic.
Source: Simo Mannila, Vera Messing, Hans-Peter van den Broek, and Zsuzsanna Vidra, Immigrants and Ethnic Minorities: European Country Cases and Debates, National Institute for Health and Welfare (Finland)
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jan
A paper examined the labour market situation of ethnic minorities in the European Union. Ethnic minorities appeared to face disproportionate difficulties in finding a job. Although experience in the host country improved the status of immigrant minorities, there was no clear assimilation of further immigrant generations.
Source: Martin Kahanec, Anzelica Zaiceva, and Klaus Zimmermann, Ethnic Minorities in the European Union: An overview, Discussion Paper 1090, German Institute for Economic Research
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jan
A study examined access to, and uptake of, health services by European migrant workers in the United Kingdom; and their experiences and perceptions of local health services. It also considered migrant workers' uptake of, and attitudes towards, health promotion activities – both in their country of origin and in the UK.
Source: Alex Collis, Neil Stott, and Danielle Ross, Workers on the Move 3: European Migrant Workers and Health in the UK – The evidence, Keystone Development Trust
Date: 2011-Jan
A new book examined the ways in which European Union law affected the protection of minority rights. Binding European standards only existed in the sphere of non-discrimination, and were at their strongest in the field of employment: as such, they affected only a small proportion of the canon of minority rights. But the EU did have a general competence to promote diversity and facilitate the redistribution of power and resources – essential underpinnings for minority protection.
Source: Tawhida Ahmed, The Impact of EU Law on Minority Rights, Hart Publishing
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Jan
The European Court of Human Rights ruled that Belgium should not have deported an asylum-seeker to Greece under a European Union mechanism known as 'Dublin II'. Belgium and Greece had violated articles 3 and 13 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which dealt with the prohibition of inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and the right to an effective remedy.
Source: M.S.S. v Belgium and Greece, European Court of Human Rights
Links: Judgement | Council of Europe press release | European Commission press release | ECRE press release
Notes: This was the Court's first judgment on the Dublin II regulation, under which European Union member states are allowed to deport asylum-seekers to the member state that they entered first, and where they are then supposed to have their asylum case heard.
Date: 2011-Jan
A collection of journal articles examined the issues of immigration, diversity, and social cohesion within Europe.
Source: Ethnicities, Volume 10 Issue 4
Links: Table of contents
Date: 2011-Jan
A report set out the positions of the governments of all of the 27 member states of the European Union in relation to the United Nations Migrant Workers Convention.
Source: Rene Plaetevoet and Marika Sidoti, Ratification of the UN Migrant Workers Convention in the European Union: Survey on the Positions of Governments and Civil Society Actors, Migrants' Rights Network/European Platform for Migrant Workers Rights
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jan
A paper said that the European Union lacked a consistent strategy to address its need for skilled migrants – and that it was paralyzed by the notion of 'fortress' Europe.
Source: Martin Kahanec and Klaus Zimmermann, High-Skilled Immigration Policy in Europe, Discussion Paper 1096, German Institute for Economic Research
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jan
A report examined domestic violence against women from minority-ethnic and Roma backgrounds in the United Kingdom and Hungary. Stereotyping and racism often contributed to women not being able to access adequate protection.
Source: Yesim Yaprak Yildiz, Fruzsina Baumann, and Sumita Dutta, Empowering Women or Perpetuating Victimhood: Minority ethnic and Roma women's experiences of domestic violence policy and service provision, IMECE Turkish Speaking Women's Group/London Training and Employment Network/Regional Social Welfare Resource Centre
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jan
A new book examined the debate on migration and integration policies in the enlarged European Union and its member states.
Source: Emma Carmel, Alfio Cerami, and Theodoros Papadopoulos, Migration and Welfare in the new Europe: Social protection and the challenges of integration, Policy Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Jan
A new book examined labour migration in Europe, including a case study of policy change in the United Kingdom.
Source: Alex Balch, Managing Labour Migration in Europe: Ideas, knowledge and policy change, Manchester University Press
Links: Summary
Date: 2011-Jan
A report examined the effectiveness of target-setting to improve the socio-economic situation of migrants and ethnic minorities in Europe. It said that consideration should be given to setting a European Union-level target (and at the very least, national targets) to reduce migrant poverty using EU-level indicators, such as the 'at-risk-of-poverty rate' and 'people living in jobless households'.
Source: Mary-Anne Kate, Target-Setting for Improving the Socio-Economic Situation of Migrants and Ethnic Minorities in Europe, European Network Against Racism
Links: Report
Date: 2011-Jan
A paper proposed an agenda for diversity and minority integration in European labour markets. Policies to foster integration needed to involve all stakeholders, including all levels of government, the public and private sectors, and civil society organizations. Identification and transfer of good practices was essential.
Source: Martin Kahanec and Klaus Zimmermann, A Policy Agenda for Diversity and Minority Integration, Discussion Paper 1091, German Institute for Economic Research
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jan
A paper examined the extent to which increased ethnic heterogeneity in European countries might undermine public support for social welfare policies.
Source: Christian Larsen, Ethnic Heterogeneity and Public Support for Welfare Policies: Is the 'black' American experience resembled in Britain, Sweden, and Denmark?, Working Paper 2011-68, Centre for Comparative Welfare Studies (Aalborg University)
Links: Paper
Date: 2011-Jan
