The 10th European Migration Forum focused on harnessing migrants’ skills in the EU

On 27 and 28 November, the 10th European Migration Forum, organised by the European Commission and the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), took place in Brussels. The Forum’s theme this year was “Harnessing migrants’ skills in the EU”. Representatives from civil society and EU institutions discussed how recognising migrants’ skills and supporting their integration into the European labour market can generate positive socio-economic impact.

Key speakers included Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration Magnus Brunner, and President of the European Economic and Social Committee, Séamus Boland.

During roundtable sessions, participants shared good practices on integration and reflected how EU funds can better support labour market integration. Workshops also focused on protecting migrant workers, combating illegal employment, and addressing trafficking in human beings for the purpose of labour exploitation.

The Forum serves as a platform for success stories such as the one of Saber Kordestanchi, Iranian-born co-founder of Hostaway a management software for short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb. Saber made history on Finland's 2023 tax list, ranking as the country’s 11th highest earner.

During the Forum, he shared his entrepreneurial journey showing how migrants contribute to the EU’s economy when given opportunities to work and grow. Stories like Saber's highlight the importance of legal pathways and fair access to employment. The Forum plays a key role in supporting the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum, strengthening dialogue between EU institutions and civil society. The Pact also aims to streamline migrant’s’ integration into the EU labour market by prioritising skill recognition, targeted training, and access to employment.

About the Forum

Since 2015, the EMF has served as a platform for civil society to express views, exchange ideas and best practices, and discuss challenges and priorities with decision makers at EU level. It is co-organised and run by the European Commission (DG HOME), and the European Economic and Social Committee.

Find out more: European Migration Forum – 10th meeting