Migration partnerships in a changing geopolitical and security landscape
Migration is increasingly embedded within broader foreign policy agendas. States are reassessing partnerships, strengthening border governance, combating migrant smuggling networks, and seeking new forms of international cooperation to manage increasingly complex migration movements. Sessions on migration partnerships, global power dynamics, the EU’s external borders, and whole-of-route approaches examine how these shifts are reshaping migration governance, and how international cooperation can respond.
Displacement, recovery, and resilience in Europe’s neighbourhood
After fifteen years of war, the context in Syria continues to evolve, while the ongoing war in Ukraine generates profound human, economic and demographic consequences, including large scale displacement. Discussions examine the priorities for recovery, reconstruction, and regional stability: rebuilding institutions, restoring livelihoods, and strengthening economic resilience. They also explore how these developments are shaping displacement dynamics, and how states are responding to the changing needs and circumstances of displaced populations.
Labour mobility, skills and changing global labour markets
Demographic change, skills shortages, and economic transformation are reshaping labour markets and patterns of international mobility. At the same time, governments are seeking migration governance models that are more strategic, coherent, and responsive to future challenges. With perspectives from South Asia, the Gulf, and Africa, this year’s VMC places the spotlight on innovative approaches to facilitating international skills mobility.
