One of our six research themes
Our research at the Migration Policy Centre explores how migration interacts with labour markets and welfare systems. We analyse the fiscal contributions of migrants, the effects of migration on labour shortages, and the policies that shape workforce integration.
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Did you know?
The Fiscal Impact of Migrants: Migrants make net positive contributions to welfare systems across Europe, despite political debates suggesting otherwise.
Labour Market Dynamics: Migrants fill critical roles in industries facing worker shortages, particularly in essential services like healthcare and food production.
Structural Dependence on Migrant Labour: High-income countries not only rely on migrant workers within their borders but also benefit from global supply chains that depend on migrants elsewhere.
Labour migration policies must navigate the tension between economic demands and workers’ rights. Flexible labour markets may increase opportunities for migrants but often come at the cost of weaker protections.
Martin Ruhs
Deputy Director of the Migration Policy Centre
PRIME is an international research and policy project that analyses the conditions and politics of irregular migrants in Europe
Martin Ruhs - Leila Giannetto - Caitlin Procter - Clare Teresa Fox-Ruhs
9 December 2025
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