The 8th edition of the European Migration Forum, held in Brussels on 4 and 5 December 2023, brought together more than 250 participants from civil society and institutions working in the field of migration, asylum and integration. Under the theme "Migrants in Europe today: specific needs, skills, and communication for stronger inclusion," the Forum addressed three of the most pressing issues in the field of migration: public attitudes and communication; specific needs of migrants and refugees; and labour market integration.
16 speakers from various sectors shared their insights and key findings, during the three main roundtable sessions titled:
- How can we change the narrative on migration in the age of polarisation and disinformation;
- What is needed for a more sustainable labour market integration;
- How to identify and support migrants and refugees with specific needs.
Participants emphasised that European media should prioritise accurate and transparent reporting on migrants and migration, using proper language and providing the necessary context. They identified media literacy, targeted communication campaigns, and education for young people as important steps toward combating migration stereotypes.
Speakers also highlighted some of the obstacles in matching job vacancies with migrants’ skills: language barriers; cumbersome skills validation; and information gaps between migrants and employers. They recommended more effective cooperation between public and private labour markets, especially at the local level.
Discussions also highlighted the need for mental health support, including intercultural training and community-based care, with recommendations focusing on infrastructure for identifying and supporting victims of human trafficking and safeguarding unaccompanied minors.
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- Publication date
- 20 December 2023
- Author
- Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs