The impact of migration on small states in the European Union : the cases of Malta, Cyprus and Luxembourg

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of migration on small states within the European Union, with a particular focus on Malta, Cyprus and Luxembourg. The study employed a qualitative research approach, majorly through reviewing of available data from secondary sources. In certain instances, where detailed information was of necessity, a formal interview was conducted, where members of the European Parliament were identified and interviewed. A critical review of Central Bank surveys, Asylum Information Database Report and other relevant articles showed that there is an increase in asylum-seeking migrants into neighboring countries of the European Union with major impacts in smaller states. The 2015 refugee crisis, led to the closure of European borders and enforcement of extensive barriers to entry. This is majorly brought about by economic inequalities and poverty, the rising terrorism in the Middle East, and the ever increasing political tension and conflicts, which as a result, is leading to an unbearable life, forcing the populations to flee away and seek asylum in nearby peaceful countries. According to this research, the influx of refugees has mainly left positive financial impact on the small states' economy with regards to the employment sector, but some negative impact on their distinguished cultures and political decisions. Thus, it can be said that there is a sudden urge and need to come up with regulatory policies that seek to sustain, control and limit not just the number of refugees who seek asylum but also to deal with the reasons behind why there is such a refugee crisis. These approaches have to include the review ot border control leg1slat1on and a strong and updated Common Foreign and Security Policy, that will help in the monitoring and controlling of the number of immigrants in European States, especially those states which are relevantly smaller in size, where their financial limitations and struggles cannot overcome the difficulties that they face.