ASSESSMENTS

Why Europe Is Conflicted Over Immigration

Sep 9, 2015 | 09:00 GMT

Refugees from various countries walk along railway tracks near the Hungarian town of Szeged.
Refugees from various countries walk along railway tracks near the Hungarian town of Szeged.

(ATTILA KISBENEDEK/AFP/Getty Images)

Summary

The refugee crisis in Europe is doing more than just driving wedges between EU member states — it is also changing national demographics across the Continent. Populations in all European countries are already aging and many will soon begin to shrink, bringing fiscal hardships to economies. Though immigration can help foster economic growth, it can also open the door for political and social conflict. And as Europe deals with its third major wave of migration in 15 years, those very challenges are prompting European nations to consider reforming their immigration policies. 

The influx of foreigners can forestall the economic problems that come with demographic decline, but it can also spark political conflict....

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