Open but Secure Europe%E2%80%99s Path to Strategic Interdependence 2025

fuels negative reactions from host communities who are often confronted with housing shortages and already overstretched health, education and social services. The politicization of migration at national and European levels requires strong leadership to make the case for regular migration as part of the solution to – not the cause of – Europe’s problems. Migration represents a source of diversity and enrichment for communities. But it can also cause societal and political tension, in part due to the scapegoating of migrants by populist and far- right politicians. One fact should cut through the political cacophony: together with labour market reform, migration holds the key for Europe to address the demographic challenges awaiting it. Unlocking these benefits requires a new, more collaborative and evidence-based engagement from the EU, its member state governments and society. The politicization of migration at national and European levels requires strong leadership to make the case for regular migration as part of the solution to – not the cause of – Europe’s problems. Summary of recommendations –Boost economic incentives at member state level to increase the birth rate and work to increase women’s participation in the workforce. Supplement labour market shortages with automation, AI and digitalization. –Adopt a more coordinated, comprehensive and granular approach to migration. –Address origin countries’ concerns around brain drain by investing in their education, professional and vocational training systems. –Assess Europe’s skills shortages at the EU level, so that national admission decisions are coordinated to secure the workers the economy needs. Attract key workers with pathways to permanent residence and citizenship. For highly skilled workers, this should be coordinated through universities and research centres. –Adopt a common European approach towards the integration of migrants, which shares best practice, evidence and knowledge as well as financial tools to support national and local strategies. –Cut through the politicization of migration, through strong leadership at national and European levels to make the case for regular migration as part of the solution to Europe’s problems. Open but Secure: Europe’s Path to Strategic Interdependence 16