ECB Chief: Foreign Workers Crucial for EU Economic Growth

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2 days ago

Above: Christine Lagarde at a rates decision news conference in Frankfurt, Germany, on July 24, 2025. Image copyright: Alex Kraus/Bloomberg/Getty Images

story last updated 2 days ago

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

Foreign workers are economic lifelines keeping Europe afloat during tough times. They've filled critical labor gaps while locals moved into better jobs, creating a win-win situation that boosts GDP and keeps unemployment low. Without them, the eurozone would be struggling with tighter labor markets and weaker growth, leaving the continent worse off for everyone.

European Central Bank Econstor

Establishment-critical narrative

European mass migration would be unnecessary if the root causes such as low birth rates and a lack of technological innovation were addressed. The costs of migration, such as what is spent on integration programs, the increase in crime, and the depressing effect on wages, likely outweigh its benefits. Europe must stop relying on foreign workers to solve domestic problems.

Brussels Signal