EU post-enlargement migration and the great recession: Lessons and policy implications

Abstract

Following a century scarred by the frontlines and atrocities of two World Wars and a split by the Iron Curtain during the Cold War, the demise of Communist rule in Central Eastern Europe followed by integration and enlargement of the European Union (EU) have been among the greatest achievements of Europeans in modern history. The EU single labor market and free mobility of workers are important outcomes but also vehicles, and fundamental cornerstones, of this endeavor. Their role is essential in nurturing the mutual understanding, cooperation and trust between European peoples and their benefits stretch across social, political, cultural and economic domains.