Labour mobility in the euro area

The economic and sovereign debt crisis has driven unemployment in the ‘GIPS’ countries to record levels, while Germany is sorely in need of skilled workers. Labour migration could help offset this imbalance. Net immigration has in fact collapsed in the euro periphery. However, since immigration surpluses remain – with the exception of Ireland –, labour mobility is relieving only part of the pressure on the jobs market on the periphery of the euro area. Whilst adjustments so far have taken place primarily through changes in the patterns of migration by non-EU nationals, now Europeans, and here in particular young, well-qualified people, are apparently becoming more willing to relocate. But Germany still needs to offer better conditions for the immigration of skilled labour.

Dagens Nyheter, 20.9.11: Immobile Europe (via PressEurop) http://www.presseurop.eu//en/content/article/969111-immobile-europe

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