November 2013 - Free movement of people is one of the cornerstones of European integration. Increasing mobility of people brings with it both territorial development opportunities and challenges. As a consequence of the global economic crisis migration flows have changed, with territorial impacts on European countries, its regions and cities.

In the light of the Europe 2020 Strategy, migration and mobility is seen as contributing to the competitiveness of the EU, ensuring a labour force with the necessary skills to reinforce the EU’s long-term economic development. The programme of the Lithuanian EU Presidency emphasises the need for developing cooperation with EU strategic partners and regions in the field of migration. Furthermore, recent events around the Mediterranean Sea related to flows of irregular migrants towards Europe have increased the attention to migration issues.

ESPON Evidence Brief No. 6 “Post-crisis migration trends: challenges and opportunities for Europe’s competitiveness” is available below.

Should you have questions regarding the ESPON Evidence Brief, please do not hesitate to contact the ESPON Coordination Unit at [email protected]