The number of third-country citizens living in the EU in January 2016 was 20.7 million, representing 4.1 % of the EU-28 population (Eurostat, 2017). The largest numbers of non-nationals living in the EU Member States were found in Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain and France. Non-EU citizens residing in these Member States collectively accounted for 76% of the total of non-nationals living in the EU, while the same five Member States represented 63% of the EU-28’s population (Eurostat, 2017).

The EU has the task to encourage and support the actions of Member States aimed at promoting the integration of citizens of non-EU countries. The EU Integration Action Plan of Third-Country Nationals, published by the European Commission in June 2016, is the most recent document setting the objectives about integration policy, and describing the measures implemented at EU level concerning, among other things, pre-departure and pre-arrival actions, education, employment and vocational training. With specific regard to the promotion of labour market integration, in December 2017 the Commission and the European Social and Economic partners signed the “European Partnership for Integration”, laying down key principles and commitments aimed at enhancing the opportunities for refugees and migrants to participate in the labour market.

Despite the efforts of EU Member States to build effective integration policies coherent with their national contexts, third-country nationals face higher risk of poverty and social exclusion, as well as worse opportunities to access basic services, compared to EU citizens. The early inclusion in the labour market of those legally residing in the EU is therefore a key component of the integration process, but it is also beneficial for the economies of the host communities. In destination countries, migration may serve as a solution to specific labour market shortages, while contributing to the sustainability of welfare systems in the context of the ongoing trend of population ageing.

This international symposium provides a timely opportunity to discuss the current developments and challenges of integration in Europe, and to assess the state-of-play in the implementation of the EU framework supporting Member States’ integration policies. The conference will also promote the exchange of ideas and encourage delegates to engage in thought-provoking topical debate, whilst sharing best practice and lessons learnt.


Delegates will:

• Assess the EU policy framework for non EU migrant integration
• Explore solutions to improve the access of third-country nationals to basic services
• Discuss ways to enable equal access to the labour market for migrants
• Explore possibilities to improve the procedures for the recognition of qualifications and skills
• Consider the role of host communities in implementing successful integration processes
• Explore possibilities for increasing the cooperation between governments, local authorities and civil society
• Build strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders in the public and private sector

We are pleased to announce that there are still a few speaking slots available. 

If you are interested in representing your organisation and speaking in one of the panel sessions, please email info@publicpolicyexchange.co.uk 

To view our brochure, including the full event programme, click here.

I am pleased to advise you that we offer a 20% early registration discount off the standard delegate rates (subject to type of organisation and terms and conditions) for bookings received by the 27th July 2018.  Do feel free to circulate this information to relevant colleagues within your organisation.

In the meantime, to ensure your organisation is represented, please book online or complete and return the registration form at your earliest convenience in order to secure your delegate place(s)

Kind regards,

Conference Team
Public Policy Exchange
Tel: +44 (0) 20 3137 8630
Fax: +44 (0) 20 3137 1459