Link - IOM Publications - International Organization for Migration

country of destination or a lack of desire of the country’s nationals
to fill these positions. In return, the host society benefits from
increased economic activity and a broader base of available
skills. In addition, migrants may bring innovation, investment
and entrepreneurship to a country. At the same time, attention
needs to be paid to the economic conditions in countries of origin
with a view towards co-development, joint ventures and skills
transfer. Additionally, the workplace is an important platform for
integration, as it is often the place where migrants interact with
members of the host community.
The consequences of failed economic integration of migrants are
all too evident. Persistent unemployment among many migrants
and indeed second and third generation migrants can lead to
alienation and dependency, with negative repercussions for their
integration and cohesion of the society as a whole. In addition,
even when employed, migrants may experience discrimination
at the workplace or may be underemployed and thus not able
to realize their potential and maximize their contribution to the
society.
26
Legal
The legal dimension of integration, including mutual rights
and obligations on the parts of migrants and their host societies,
is of fundamental importance to all aspects of the integration
process. A legal structure in the countries of destination that is not
discriminatory, protects basic human rights and, in some cases,
gives affirmative rights to migrants, creates the conditions for
integration on the basis of the rule of law. In turn, migrants must
observe national laws and respect the rights of all nationals and
permanent residents. To this end, it is important that migrants are
made aware of their rights and obligations in the host country.
Some countries carry out regularization campaigns to extend
legal protection to migrants who arrived through irregular
channels. Other strategies include toughening criminal liability
for organizations involved in illegal migration operations such as
smuggling and trafficking. Regardless, enforcing a legal framework