Abstract

#2016-066

Post-Enlargement Migration and the Great Recession in the E(M)U: Lessons and policy implications

Martin Kahanec & Klaus F. Zimmermann

This paper summarises key results from our research about post-enlargement mobility in the EU. We clarify its scope, composition and effects; labour market situation of mobile workers; the role of labour mobility as a vehicle of economic stabilisation; as well as brain circulation and return migration. We also outline a policy agenda for a labour mobility model for a vibrant EU, enabling Europe to cope with labour market imbalances and asymmetric economic shocks, and providing for a more prosperous, cohesive and equal EU.

JEL codes: J15, J61, J68

Keywords: EU enlargement, free movement of workers, labour mobility, migration policy, business cycle, stabilisation