Introduction to Immigration, Intra-EU Mobility, and the Welfare state

Description

Freedom of movement, the right to live and work in any member state of the European Union (EU) for citizens, is a fundamental principle of the EU and widely considered as one of the most important achievements of European integration. Yet this key pillar of European integration has become a major topic of controversy, particularly following the financial crisis of 2008 and appears to be a key driver of Euroscepticism (e.g. Brexit) across the Union. Immigration and the movement of mobile citizens continue to transform our societies; thus, it is no surprise that this form of globalisation has caught the interest of the public, politicians, and researchers alike. This lecture examines key trends in European migration and explores the ability states to address inequality within their borders in light of increasing immigration and movement of EU mobile citizens. We will look at the role of immigration and mobility in transforming the boundaries of European welfare states and try to better understand the debates surrounding the wide-reaching effects of immigration on social policy. Moreover, we will discuss the dilemmas that policymakers face when trying to reconcile their national welfare systems and labour markets in times of increasing migration.

Period	2021
Held at	YUFE