European Union

Stagnation and job losses in key German sectors, particularly the chemicals and car industries, have raised fears of long-term economic decline for the country

According to Czech Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný, the European Commission’s proposed CAP budget could "threaten food security"

Written by Steven Blaakman.

Migrants contribute about 10 % to the world’s gross domestic product and are likely to gain in importance due to skills shortages and an ageing population in host countries. Labour migration also has a significant impact on the countries of origin, both positive and negative. The overall impact of migrant workers on their countries of origin varies depending on the circumstances. In 2022, there were 167.7 million migrant workers globally, 93 % of whom were employed. Some 90 % of migrants move voluntarily, mostly for economic reasons.

Remittances sent by migrants have become an important source of income for their countries of origin, reaching about US$656 billion in 2023. Additionally, diasporas can serve as a means for countries of origin to exercise more influence beyond their borders. These countries can also reap the benefits of the skills and knowledge acquired by returning migrants. Some countries, such as India and the Philippines, have policies in place to maximise the possible benefits.

On the other hand, the exodus of migrant workers can exacerbate skills shortages in their home countries, particularly in smaller ones. In addition, migrant workers may encounter substandard working conditions and lower wages compared to local workers.

Read the complete briefing on ‘How labour migration affects countries of origin‘ in the Think Tank pages of the European Parliament.

Top 20 countries of origin for international migrants in 2024 (in millions) International remittance flows to low- and middle-income countries (2000-2024) Top 10 countries receiving international remittances in 2022 (US$ billion)

Kloc signalled that the Relevant Market Recommendation review will be delayed past December

The move is the EU's most far-reaching attempt yet to pressure Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to halt its war on Gaza

Over the summer, the PS put forward an alternative budget that proposed higher taxes for the wealthiest households

Moscow has never fully explained the causes of his death, saying only that he fell ill while walking in the prison yard on 16 February 2024

Potential areas of greater collaboration include defence, technology, and climate change

The Israeli army has launched a ground offensive in Gaza City that aims to completely eliminate Hamas forces in the area, according to a military spokesman. Hundreds of thousands of residents are trying to flee the city. The EU has called for a stop to the 'cycle of violence, destruction and suffering', while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed doubts that the Gaza war can be ended through diplomatic means.

More than 100,000 people took to the streets of London on Saturday in response to a call by British right-wing extremist Tommy Robinson. Alongside Tesla CEO Elon Musk, right-wing politicians from all over Europe, including France's Éric Zemmour, incited resentment against foreigners, the media and the British government. The commentaries reflect dismay, but not surprise.

After Russian drones entered Polish airspace last Wednesday, further incidents on Nato's external border are heightening the tensions between Moscow and the Western military alliance. The Polish army shot down a drone that had flown over government buildings in Warsaw on Monday night. Two Belarusians have reportedly been arrested in connection with that incident. A Russian drone also penetrated Romania's airspace at the weekend.