NOW ONLINE – EFC Diversity, Migration and Integration Thematic Network and EPIM joint webinar – A closer look at the intersection of technology and migration management

Beyond the policy shifts which will accompany the new dynamic within and between EU bodies in the framework of the new term of the European Commission (2019-2024), external factors are likely to play an equally important role in shaping migration, as well as its policy responses, in the years ahead. Long-term demographic trends such as population ageing and labour shortages in various employment sectors will continue to call on responses by policy-makers, whilst climate change is likely to become an increasingly relevant push factor beyond poverty and persecution. In the meantime, technological developments are likely to continue against the backdrop of increasingly strict migration measures with adverse effects on the rights and lives of migrants.

Whilst policy-makers´ sense of a `migration crisis´ has subsided compared to 2015, migration will continue to play a key role in EU and national policy-making. In order to support CSOs effectively in their work in developing humane and sustainable responses to migration and in building inclusive communities, it is necessary to map the different themes and trends which are likely to shape migration and its responses in the coming years, and the particular challenges and opportunities which it generates for civil society engagement.

The purpose of this meeting will be to develop a forward-looking understanding of key trends and themes* that can influence and impact migrants and the communities they live in, migration policies and practices, civil society and foundations working on migration in the upcoming five years and beyond. EPIM and DMI will invite participants to look at ways long-term technological, demographic, economic, political, and environmental trends may influence the future of migration and the inclusion in the EU. What impact may those have one migrants and the communities they live in? What will be the role of civil society and foundations in that context? What can foundations do to best prepare to respond to these scenarios?