Why everyone is wrong about migration – Hein de Haas joins Ros Taylor
Jan 18, 2024
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Hein de Haas, author of How Migration Really Works, joins Ros Taylor to discuss migration policies. They challenge common perceptions, highlighting the positive overall contribution of recent migration. They also explore the disconnect between political rhetoric and immigration policies, emphasizing the exploitation of migrant workers. The podcast calls for informed policy responses and a serious debate on the economy and labor market.
Contrary to popular belief, the overall contribution of recent migration has been positive rather than negative.
There is actually no difference between Left and Right wing governments in terms of the immigration policies they implement.
Deep dives
Migration is not spinning out of control
Contrary to popular belief, long-term global data shows that migration levels have remained relatively stable over the past 50 years. The idea of an international migration crisis fueled by factors like inequality, warfare, and climate change is not supported by evidence. While certain Western European countries like Britain have become important destinations for migrants, this primarily refers to legal migration, not illegal migration or increasing numbers of refugees. Panic about migration is not justified when looking at the data.
Brexit's impact on migration
Brexit aimed to address the issue of labor shortages by limiting the free movement of Eastern European workers. However, despite the goal of reducing migration, Brexit did not decrease labor shortages in the UK. In fact, it led to a geographical shift in migration patterns, with more migrants coming from Asian and African countries. Additionally, the post-COVID labor crunch and high demand for migrant workers in sectors like healthcare contributed to the increase in net migration to the UK.
Reconsidering society and labor market policies in relation to migration
The debate on immigration should focus on the kind of society we want to live in and how we organize labor markets. The reliance on migrant workers to fill unattractive jobs and provide services poses questions about the status quo. Issues such as childcare, parental leave, institutionalized care for the sick and elderly, and the impact on wages need to be addressed. Policies should not be designed solely to serve corporate interests but should consider the long-term consequences and benefits for society as a whole.
Migration is one of the most divisive issues in the UK – socially, politically, and economically. But a lot of the information we consume is propaganda, and many of the assumptions made are wrong. Hein de Haas, author of How Migration Really Works, offers Ros Taylor insights which could lead to effective migration policy.
• “The overall contribution of recent migration has been positive rather than negative.” – Hein de Haas
• “There is actually no difference between Left and Right wing governments in terms of the immigration policies they implement.” – Hein de Haas
Written and Presented by Ros Taylor. Produced by: Eliza Davis Beard. Audio production: Simon Williams. Managing Editor: Jacob Jarvis. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Music by Kenny Dickinson. THE BUNKER is a Podmasters Production.