Migration Matters #40
Schengen-like Gulf Visa, What's France got to do with an Indian Ocean Island, EU Asylum Applications Reach 7-Yr High, India's MoUs with Greece & Taiwan, Australian Act for Migrant Workers, & More!
Dear Reader,
We are excited to bring you yet another exciting edition of Migration Matters. Expect nothing but the most relevant and insightful trends from the world of migration - the stories that matter, the events that made headlines and exciting resources you can check out. As always, don’t forget to check out our Good Finds section for some hidden gems!
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Must Read
EU Asylum Applications Reach Seven-Year High
According to the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), in 2023, the European Union (EU) experienced a surge in asylum applications, exceeding 1.1 million, reminiscent of the 2015 refugee crisis. The majority of these applications were filed by Syrians and Afghans. Germany received the most applications, with 3,34,000 people seeking asylum. However, relative to its population, Cyprus faced the greatest pressure from migrants wishing to stay. This surge in applications could have implications for the political landscape, with far-right parties potentially capitalising on the influx during the upcoming EU elections in June.
France's Scraps Birthright Citizenship on the Indian Ocean Island
France announced its decision to revoke birthright citizenship in Mayotte, a move that has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the rights of residents in the Indian Ocean archipelago. The decision comes amid efforts to curb illegal immigration and address socio-economic challenges in Mayotte, which has seen a significant influx of migrants from neighbouring Comoros. However, critics argue that this move could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and exacerbate existing inequalities, with some viewing it as discriminatory and contrary to France's principles of equality and inclusion.
Schengen-like Gulf Visa: Boon for Indians
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has approved a unified tourist visa, set to launch in 2024-25. This groundbreaking decision aims to simplify travel logistics and boost the economic and tourism sectors across member states such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. For the vast Indian diaspora in the Gulf, comprising about 8.8 million NRIs, or 6 per cent of 1.34 crore NRIs, this development signals increased travel convenience and economic opportunities.
India
Kerala Leads India’s Healthcare Talent Migration to MENA Countries
Kerala, along with Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, has taken the lead in healthcare talent migration from India to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, particularly the United Arab Emirates (UAE). In 2023, the demand for healthcare professionals in the UAE alone witnessed a remarkable 3.3-fold increase. The migration includes nurses, doctors, and laboratory technicians. Incentives such as extended residency visas, financial benefits, and state-of-the-art healthcare infrastructure attract professionals to these roles. India plays a crucial role in meeting the rising talent demands in the MENA healthcare sector. Notably, male nurses are increasingly joining this workforce segment traditionally dominated by women.
India-UK Young Professionals Scheme: 3000 visas up for grabs
The UK Home Office recently wrapped up the India Young Professionals Scheme ballot for 2024, offering a valuable opportunity for young Indian talents to reside, work, and study in the United Kingdom. The event, which took place from February 20 to February 22, 2024, targeted individuals aged between 18 and 30. Successful applicants will be granted a 24-month stay in the UK. A total of 3,000 slots are allocated for the Scheme visas in 2024, with the majority distributed during the February ballot. The remaining places will be fulfilled by a subsequent July 2024 draw.India-Greece deal on migration mobility to strengthen diplomatic and strategic alliances
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent meeting with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has set the stage for a significant milestone in bilateral relations between India and Greece. The migration and mobility agreement signifies a deepening of ties between the two nations, promising increased cooperation in areas such as immigration, mobility, and possibly economic development. Specific themes include the collaboration of startups in both countries, cooperation in shipping and connectivity, support in defence, cyber security, maritime security and counter-terrorism.
Study reveals a shifting migrant corridor from Ganjam district, Odisha, to Kerala, replacing the traditional route to Surat, Gujarat
The marginalised SCs, STs, and Christian communities from Odisha now favour Kerala due to abundant work opportunities, higher wages for unskilled labour compared to Surat, and, notably, the absence of caste discrimination. Published in the Odisha Economic Journal, the study is co-authored by scholars from institutions such as the Centre for Development Studies, Centre for Migration and Inclusive Development, and Aajeevika Bureau. It explores the influence of caste on interstate migration, shedding light on the changing dynamics of migration patterns. The preference for Kerala is particularly evident among the SC and ST populations in Surada block, Ganjam district.Taiwan signs MoU to bring in Indians to relieve the job crunch
Taiwan entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India to address its labour shortages by welcoming Indian workers. This departure from Taipei's traditional reliance on Southeast Asian nations for its foreign labour force signals a significant shift. The collaboration is focused on key sectors like manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. With over 700,000 migrant workers currently hailing from Southeast Asia, predominantly from Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, engaged mainly in manufacturing and caregiving roles, this MoU underscores Taiwan's strategic diversification of its foreign workforce and signifies a newfound focus on attracting talent from India to sustain and boost various industries.
Global
UK bill to send asylum seekers to Rwanda undercuts human rights
The British government’s controversial plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda might cost more than 600 million pounds to deport 300 refugees. The Migration and Economic Development Partnership (MEDP) agreement, introduced in 2022, aims to transfer asylum seekers arriving on England's southern coast via small, inflatable boats to Rwanda. Last year, the UK’s Supreme Court ruled the scheme was unlawful as it would violate international human rights laws. The ongoing legal challenges have prevented any deportations from occurring. The goal of the agreement is to establish a process for relocating asylum seekers deemed illegal by the UK to Rwanda.Central-Eastern European Nations, Including Poland, Prioritize Global Mobility and Immigration Policies
In February 2024, Poland's government announced a comprehensive migration strategy for 2025-2030, focusing on a "responsible and safe" approach. The Ministry of Interior and Administration plans to spend the first half of 2024 conducting consultations with various stakeholders. This strategy is expected to overhaul the country's legislation on foreigners by mid-2025. Meanwhile, other Central-Eastern European countries are also updating their policies on global mobility and immigration. Lithuania is combating the practice of obtaining residence permits for foreigners through shell companies, while Romania has maintained its work permit limit for non-EU nationals at 100,000. Latvia continues its efforts to eliminate the Russian language from the public space.
Ukrainian Refugees in Poland: A Long-Term Integration Challenge
In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Poland has emerged as an unexpected refuge for nearly 1 million Ukrainian migrants. Despite their shared history marked by wars and mutual antagonisms, Poland opened its borders and became the second-largest recipient of Ukrainian refugees in Europe. The two countries’ intertwined past and linguistic similarities played a role, but Poland’s pragmatic approach also stems from its reliance on Ukrainian labour in recent years. Their protection status has been extended, but the integration challenges and long-term prospects remain uncertain. Here’s an interesting read that sheds light on the issue.
The Australian Parliament passes stronger protections for migrant workers
The Australian Parliament has taken a significant step towards protecting migrant workers from exploitation by passing the Migration Amendment (Strengthening Employer Compliance) Act 2024. This Act, set to be enforced from July 1 2024, makes it a criminal offence for employers to coerce or unduly influence migrant workers into working in violation of their visa conditions. Additionally, the bill empowers the minister to prohibit employers found guilty of exploitation from hiring any migrant workers on temporary visas. These reforms signify Australia's commitment to upholding labour standards and ensuring the fair treatment of migrant workers within its borders.Biden's Asylum Policy Sparks Debate: Migration Trends in Focus
President Joe Biden's plan to restrict asylum claims faces potential legal challenges and stirs discussions within his liberal base. Globally, migration trends are under scrutiny, with NRIs adapting to evolving opportunities abroad amid shifting visa regulations. Simultaneously, the U.S. grapples with heated debates over executive actions to deny asylum to illegal immigrants, prompting intense discussions on immigration reform and ethical treatment. These dialogues highlight the nuanced nature of migration policies and their profound impact on societies as policymakers navigate a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities.
Good Finds
Podcast Spotlight: ‘Wanderlust Chronicles by Risai Wanders’
Dive into the captivating world of migration in this new podcast hosted by anthropologist and travel writer Risai Wanders. Each episode delves into the journeys of migrants, their cultural encounters, and the impact of displacement. From tales of resilience to unexpected friendships, this podcast offers a fresh perspective on migration beyond headlines.
Strangers in Town: A riveting documentary on Garden City, Kansas
“Strangers in Town” is a poignant documentary that unfolds the unexpected transformation of Garden City, Kansas, due to global migration. As newcomers arrived seeking refuge and opportunity, the community faced significant challenges—demanding more housing, social services, education, and infrastructure. Covering these stories, the film gives a new meaning to the city’s motto: “The world grows here,” emphasising the inspiring resilience found within a community shaped by migration.
A Feathered Odyssey on Migration
In the enchanting film ‘Migration’, a flock of birds embark on an epic journey through diverse landscapes, led by Zephyr, a curious robin voiced by Kumail Nanjiani, and Aria, a swift sparrow voiced by Elizabeth Banks. Guided by star maps and melodies, they face challenges, including storms and the ominous Lord Talon, voiced by Danny DeVito. Along the way, they encounter mystical creatures and learn profound lessons about belonging and the essence of home. ‘Migration’ celebrates the resilience and beauty of migration, resonating with human experiences.
Thank you. We will see you again next month!
Best Wishes,
The IMN Team
Research and Drafting: Pranoti Makarand Awalekar
Editorial Support: Pooja Bhatia
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