Strategic thinking on equality and mobility September 2011 Presentation by Jan NIESSEN, MPG

What is MPG? An independent policy ‘think-and-do-tank’ with over 15 years of experience Mission: to contribute to lasting and positive change resulting in open and inclusive societies by stimulating well-informed European debate and action on migration, equality and diversity, and enhancing European co-operation between and amongst governmental agencies, civil society organisations and the private sector. Four primary activities: Gathering, analysing and sharing information Creating opportunities for dialogue and mutual learning Mobilising and engaging stakeholders in policy debates Establishing, inspiring and managing expert networks

Value Migration Project Are international students aware of the rules governing post-study work? How competitive is the EU in retaining its international graduates? Comparative report showing impact of legal rules for retention of graduates in 5 countries – FR, DE, NL, UK, SE MPG reviews the relevant legal framework with individual report for each country surveyed

Building the appropriate legal framework Increase in number of international students - challenge of building the appropriate legal framework Needs-based approach to managing migration – EU and national measures (and rhetoric) prioritise students and skilled However access to labour market often limited and controlled Students still considered as temporary migrants

Eligibility: FR, DE, SE more open access than NL, UK Conditions: Students must show financial resources (amounts vary) and prove language skills (state V university measure) Security: Only UK currently offers permit for duration of course (to change soon). Changes also in pipeline for NL Rights: All countries allow part-time work and theoretical right to family reunification. Only NL allows student time to count for long-term residence International Students: Who studies?

International Graduates: Who Stays? Option to look for post-study work in DE, FR, NL, UK (until April 2012). Scheme announced for SE Varying conditions, restrictions and opportunities depending on country and work category Overall push to enter selective highly-skilled category, particularly in NL, FR, UK Those that do not get job immediately (SE, soon UK) or in limited time-frame (FR, DE, NL, UK) must return home

Acting on equality and mobility Thank you for your attention!