Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 05/2009

Immigration in Europe at a Time of Economic Hardship

Toby Archer

February 2009

Finnish Institute for International Affairs

Abstract

The global recession is resetting the context of the immigration debate across Europe. Immigration is one of the most visible manifestations of globalization for large numbers of Europeans. Globalization is a disruptive process challenging long held social assumptions and beliefs. It creates resistance, and concern over immigration is part of this. The recession is amplifying this effect significantly.