Five years after the migration crisis: how successful have the European and national frameworks been in integrating migrants in the labour market and providing them with access to education?PhD student: Mr R.L.N. Tans
Promotors: Mrs Prof H.E.G.S. Schneider, Mrs Dr P. Foubert
Duration: 1/1/2021 - 31/12/2024
Abstract:
Since the migration crisis, which started in 2015 with the arrival of a record of 1.822.337 migrants, the EU and its Member States have been facing the challenging task of processing the high number of applications for asylum. However, they soon faced a new challenge: the integration of the recognised asylum seekers and other migrants. As the EU only has a supporting role to play in the management of migration and the integration procedure, the burden was put on the individual Member States. By analysing and comparing the national frameworks on integration of Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden, and thereby focusing on educational and labour market integration, this research identifies both best and worst practices, while at the same time suggesting ways to improve the national frameworks. This comparative analysis is conducted using a quantification method, which is based on a set of factors of the national frameworks on integration. The national frameworks are assessed vis--vis each other. Additionally, this research focuses on the role played by the EU during the migration crisis and purports to assess whether, and to what extent, the EU should have been more actively involved. Ultimately, the research aims to contribute to the formation of more inclusive and welcoming societies. Can we conclude by saying: wir haben es geschafft?