Discussing Europe: Debates on Current European Issues
The Department of European Economic Studies launched a series of monthly meetings to discuss and exchange views on issues, mostly economic, that should concern all of us. The formal courses offered by the various Departments of the College provide much knowledge and skills but do not always cover contemporary issues as they evolve. We want to offer an opportunity to students to find out more, to hear what others think and to express their own views. Discussion is the first step to being an “engaged citizen”.
The meetings on “Discussing Europe” were launched with an informal debate on the worsening migration/refugee crisis. This crisis poses great challenges to our societies. It has already taken its toll on the supposed European solidarity. Can we afford to receive so many people? Who will pay? How can we distinguish between economic migrants and refugees? Can the agreement reached at the European Council on 24 September provide long-term solutions? Economic analysis can help frame the debate.
The meeting took place on Wednesday, 30 September in the Oude Zak residence. The debate was initiated by Academic Assistants of the Economics Department. The event was open for student and academic staff from all departments.
If you are interested to learn more about the subject of immigration and refugess, you may want to read these recent publications:
- http://www.economist.com/news/europe/21665031-eastern-europe-may-not-refugees-needs-them-more-other-countries-more-vacancies
- http://paulromer.net/let-them-come-and-they-will-build-it/
- http://www.nytimes.com/2015/09/16/business/international/europe-must-plan-for-immigration-juggernaut.html?_r=0
Sources:
- Collier, P., 2013, Exodus: Immigration and Multiculturalism in the 21st Century
- Euwals, R., Roodenburg, H., 2003, A Note on the Redistributive Effect of Immigration, IZA Discussion Paper No. 917
- Giordani, P.E., Ruta, M., 2012, Prejudice and Immigration, Economic Research and Statistics Division, World Trade Organization, Working Paper