Immigration as part of European history, has impacted widely on European societies and it will continue to do so. Immigrant employment patterns and entrepreneurship activities have developed rather quickly. Growing diaspora in EU member states has transformed international trade. Freedom of movement has helped Europe diversify itself culturally. Welfare systems have been extended to immigrant groups. The EU has evolved as a community of law supporting integration, through the development of new legislation dealing with discrimination, social exclusion, racism and xenophobia.
Suggested citation: Diego Acosta, ‘The Swiss Referendum. Is Free Movement of People in Danger in Europe?’ European Commission, Bureau of European Policy Advisors, February 2014, Issue 71, pp. 3-5.
