On 11 June, the European Commission releases a comprehensive mid-term review of the implementation of the Action Plan on Integration and Inclusion 2021-2027. The review outlines the significant pressure Member States are subject to on their public services and housing, and the importance of supporting integration in order to invest in the long-term cohesion of our societies and reduce vulnerabilities and their associated costs. It highlights successful practices, ongoing challenges, and areas requiring further attention in integrating migrants into European societies for the four main areas covered by the Action Plan (education, employment, healthcare, and housing). The review accompanies the Commission Communication on the State of Play on the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum.
While progress has been made, considerable challenges remain. There is a pressing need for targeted support for migrant and refugee women, requiring a coordinated approach across various government levels. Despite rising employment rates, many migrants struggle to fully access the job market due to difficulties in having their qualifications recognised. Integration into the education system is a priority, with migrant children facing higher risk of both leaving school early and achieving lower rates of education. Meanwhile, administrative and cultural barriers continue to impede access to healthcare, especially mental healthcare, while the ongoing European housing crisis adds another layer of complexity to these issues.
To address these challenges, the Commission will support Member States in fostering cohesive societies through a cross-sectoral approach. Special attention will be directed towards improving the integration of asylum applicants and refugees, ensuring a well-managed and effective migration and asylum policy, and the efficient implementation of the Pact.
The insights gathered from this review have already informed recent activities such as the 2025 AMIF call for transnational projects which promotes initiatives targeted towards migrant women and the involvement of migrants and refugees-led organisations in most of its actions. The conclusions of the review will continue to feed future strategies to improve migrant’s integration and to ensure their active participation in host communities and the labour market.
Background
In December 2020, the European Commission adopted the Action Plan on Integration and Inclusion 2021-2027, as part of the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum.
