Check out what is in store for Europe’s migration in 2024 – new laws, job needs, and global politics, all in the ICMPD’s latest forecast.
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New Laws Spark Migration Increase
According to the latest insights from the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Europe is gearing up for a significant uptick in migration this year.
Many people seem to be hurrying to Europe before new, tougher immigration laws kick in.
These laws are expected to roll out after some big elections and aim to reduce the number of people coming into Europe.
Election Time and Immigration Talks
With elections coming up in places like the UK and the US, immigration is becoming a hot topic.
Because of all this talk, the ICMPD thinks we will see more people trying to make their way to Europe sooner rather than later.
Michael Spindelegger, who heads the ICMPD, calls this the “closed-shop effect.”
He reckons that when people hear about all these new rules being talked about during elections, they think they better hustle and get to Europe before these laws take effect.
A Call for Better Ways to Migrate
Spindelegger, who has been around the block a few times (he used to be Austria’s vice-chancellor and foreign minister), is telling politicians they have got to do more.
He says we need to figure out legal ways for people to migrate and work with businesses to set up training centers in places like Africa and central Asia, where many migrants come from.
Why Are More People Wanting to Move?
The ICMPD’s yearly report points out why people might want to move.
There is ongoing trouble in the Middle East and the chance of Donald Trump returning to power in the US.
These things can push people to pack up and leave.
EU’s New Rules Might Attract Before They Deter
Even though the EU’s new migration laws are supposed to make getting in tougher, they might initially draw more people.
The report says folks might try to beat the clock and get to Europe before these laws bite.
Europe Needs Migrants for Its Workforce
Now, here is the twist.
Despite what some politicians are saying, Europe needs these migrants.
Spindelegger points out that there are job shortages all over Europe, and migrants could help fill those gaps.
The EU’s Commissioner, Ylva Johansson, mentioned the need for about a million more workers.
However, Spindelegger thinks the real number is even higher.
A Warning to the Business World
He also warns businesses that they might move elsewhere if they cannot find the needed workers.
So, he says Europe needs to get its act together and ensure businesses can find the workers they need quickly.
With elections on the horizon and new laws in the pipeline, Europe’s in for some interesting times when it comes to migration.
It is not just about laws and politics; it is about real people looking for a better life and a workforce that needs filling.
Let us see how it all plays out.
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