THE ECONOMIC INTEGRATION OF MIGRANTS: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN THE LABOUR MARKET

This paper critically examines the economic integration of migrants, with a particular focus on their participation in the labour market. Amid rising global migration flows, understanding how migrants navigate economic systems is vital for informed and effective policymaking. The study explores key barriers hindering migrants’ integration, including language limitations, non-recognition of foreign qualifications, legal and policy constraints, and systemic discrimination. These challenges often result in underemployment, wage disparities, and social exclusion. Nevertheless, the paper also underscores the considerable contributions migrants make to host economies. Migrants frequently address labour shortages in vital sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and construction, and many engage in entrepreneurial ventures that foster innovation and job creation. Drawing on international case studies and a wide range of literature, the paper argues for inclusive and well-coordinated integration strategies. It advocates for legal reforms, credential recognition, targeted language and skills training, and anti-discrimination measures. The study concludes that a holistic and rights-based approach to economic integration can unlock the full potential of migrants, benefiting both the individuals and the societies they join.