Europe must take holistic approach to migration issue

Migration is one of the most pressing issues in Europe today, as countries grapple with a significant influx of people fleeing conflict, poverty and environmental crises. The movement of individuals across borders has sparked heated debates about border control, integration and the responsibilities of host countries.

As Pope Francis eloquently stated last week, migrants must be “welcomed, encouraged and integrated.” He urged Europe to confront the challenges of migration with compassion and practicality.

Europe has experienced an unprecedented surge in migration in recent years, driven by factors such as conflicts in the Middle East and Africa, the Russia-Ukraine war, economic hardships and climate-induced displacement. Countries like Italy, Greece and Spain, which serve as entry points for many migrants, are particularly strained by the sheer volume of arrivals. Border control has subsequently become a contentious issue, with some countries implementing stricter policies to curb irregular migration. These measures, however, often lead to overcrowded detention centers and dangerous journeys for migrants attempting to reach safety.

However, once migrants arrive in Europe, their journey is far from over. Integration into host societies presents a significant hurdle, with language barriers, cultural differences and limited access to education or job opportunities often impeding progress. Many migrants face discrimination and social exclusion, further complicating their ability to contribute to their new communities. The lack of cohesive integration policies exacerbates these issues, leaving both migrants and host societies struggling to adapt.

Another issue is that immigration has become a divisive topic across Europe, fueling political polarization and giving rise to far-right movements that capitalize on anti-immigrant sentiments. This polarization often results in fragmented policies and a lack of unified action among EU member states. The absence of a cohesive framework undermines the ability to address migration effectively, leaving front-line countries to shoulder disproportionate responsibilities.

A lack of cohesive integration policies exacerbates the problems, leaving both migrants and host societies struggling to adapt

Dr. Majid Rafizadeh

The existing asylum systems in some European countries are overwhelmed and underfunded, leading to delays in processing applications and inadequate support for asylum seekers. This is partially why migrants often face prolonged uncertainty about their legal status, which hinders their ability to settle and integrate. The disparity in asylum policies among EU countries is further complicating the situation, creating inequities in how migrants are treated.

Countries on the front lines of migration, such as Greece, Italy and Spain, appear to bear the brunt of the crisis. These nations are often ill-equipped to handle the scale of migration they face, leading to overcrowded camps, insufficient resources and strained public services. The lack of equitable burden-sharing among EU member states exacerbates the challenges faced by these countries.

Despite the challenges, however, migrants bring significant benefits to their host countries, contributing to economic growth, cultural enrichment and demographic balance.

Migrants often fill labor shortages in critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare and construction. Their contributions boost economic productivity and address gaps in aging labor markets. Studies have shown that migrants are more likely to start businesses, creating jobs and fostering innovation. Furthermore, remittances sent back to migrants’ home countries play a vital role in alleviating poverty and promoting economic stability globally.

In addition, migration fosters cultural exchange, introducing new perspectives, cuisines, traditions and artistic expressions to host societies. This diversity, when managed effectively, enriches local cultures, promotes tolerance and enhances social cohesion. Migrants also contribute to the global interconnectedness of communities, bridging gaps between different parts of the world.

Many European countries face declining birth rates and aging populations, which pose challenges to sustaining economic growth and social welfare systems. Migrants help to offset these demographic trends by bringing younger populations into the workforce. Their presence ensures the long-term sustainability of pensions and healthcare systems, benefiting the broader society.

Addressing the challenges of migration requires a multifaceted approach that combines humanitarian values with practical strategies. To manage large influxes of migrants, Europe must invest in more efficient and humane border control measures. This includes enhancing the capacity of border agencies to process arrivals, while ensuring compliance with international human rights standards. Establishing safe and legal pathways for migration can reduce the reliance on dangerous and irregular routes, saving lives and improving the overall management of migration flows. Expanding resettlement programs and issuing humanitarian visas are practical steps in this direction.

To manage large influxes of migrants, Europe must invest in more efficient and humane border control measures

Dr. Majid Rafizadeh

Integration is also key to maximizing the benefits of migration. European host countries should invest in language and skills training programs to empower migrants to contribute effectively to their new communities. Promoting intercultural dialogue and combating discrimination through public awareness campaigns can foster social cohesion. Additionally, creating mentorship programs that pair migrants with local residents can facilitate smoother transitions and mutual understanding.

To counter political polarization, European leaders must adopt balanced narratives that highlight both the challenges and benefits of migration. Transparent communication about migration policies and their impacts can dispel misinformation and reduce fear-driven rhetoric. Encouraging cross-party collaborations and civil society engagement can also foster more inclusive policymaking processes.

Furthermore, the EU must prioritize the reform of its asylum system to ensure the timely and equitable processing of applications. This includes increasing funding for asylum agencies, standardizing procedures across member states and providing adequate support services for asylum seekers. Leveraging technology to streamline case management and improve data sharing among countries can enhance efficiency and accountability.

Finally, a fair distribution of responsibilities among EU member states is crucial to alleviating the strain on front-line countries. This could be achieved through a quota system that allocates migrants based on each country’s capacity and resources. Establishing a central EU fund to support migration-related expenses can also ease the financial burden on individual countries. In other words, solidarity and cooperation among member states are essential to building a sustainable migration framework.

In conclusion, migration presents both significant challenges and profound opportunities for Europe. While issues such as border control, integration, political polarization, inadequate asylum systems and the strain on front-line countries demand urgent attention, the benefits of migration — economic growth, cultural enrichment and demographic balance — cannot be overlooked. By adopting a holistic approach that addresses these challenges while harnessing the potential of migrants, Europe can transform migration into a driver of prosperity and unity.

• Dr. Majid Rafizadeh is a Harvard-educated Iranian American political scientist. X: @Dr_Rafizadeh