In 2026, the European population is expected to return to 2022 levels due to population aging. At the same time, several sectors, such as industry and construction, are facing a shortage of labor. According to estimates, Europe would need to welcome 700,000 foreign workers each year to maintain its workforce, while only 380,000 irregular arrivals were recorded in 2023. Europe’s dynamism depends on migration to support its economy and finance its social protection systems, especially in the face of declining population growth.

The 12 recommendations put forward by SINGA for a prosperous, dynamic, and strong Europe: 

1. Change the paradigm in migration policy. End the security-focused and short-term framing to promote a just vision favoring inclusion.
2. Open safe pathways for legal migration, whether for family, professional, or student reasons.
3. Regularize undocumented workers.
4. Impose solidarity among Member States to support key arrival countries.
5. Ensure unconditional respect for fundamental rights, provide dignified reception, and fair procedures throughout Europe.
6. Generalize the implementation of the European Directive on Temporary Protection.
7. Stop fast-track procedures at the border and abandon the notions of “safe countries of origin” and “safe third countries” that facilitate the return of asylum seekers to countries where their rights are not protected.
8. Replace the Dublin mechanism with a system that takes into account asylum seekers’ personal choices (based on their family ties, skills, and personal projects) to avoid wandering and exclusion.
9. Respect international law by ensuring rescue at sea, disembarkation in a safe place, and avoiding refoulement to countries where inhumane treatment is possible.
10. End subcontracting of “security tasks” to third countries like Libya, Tunisia, and Turkey.
11. Support NGOs and citizens who assist arriving individuals.
12. Allow freedom of movement within the Schengen area for beneficiaries of international protection (refugee status), similar to that of European citizens.