ExpatBriefing: OECD Calls On States To Support New Emigrants

By Fiona Moore, for ExpatBriefing.com 14 July, 2017

The OECD has called on countries to improve how they support migrants to integrate in their societies.

The 41st edition of the OECD's International Migration Outlook shows that permanent migration flows to OECD countries have been on the rise, with around five million people migrating permanently to OECD countries in 2016, compared with 4.7 million entries in 2015.

OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurria, launching the report, said improving integration of those who have emigrated and their children, including refugees, is vital to delivering a more prosperous, inclusive future for all.

While integration is largely a domestic issue, Gurria said better cooperation at the international level is key to making the progress required and to address negative perceptions against migration.

Gurria pointed to evidence showing the benefits of well-managed migration policies in terms of skills, diversity, and boosting economic potential.

The report shows that some countries have stepped up their integration efforts and cites examples of the fast-track integration program introduced in Sweden, and the adoption of the first ever law on integration in Germany. The report said that policies are lagging in some countries and urged governments to build on positive momentum for further reforms focused on all migrants.

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