Migrations and migration Policies in the European Union: free circulation and recognition of diplomas

Abstract

The main aim of this text is to evaluate the relationship between the mobility of highly qualified economic agents - in particular those with degrees - and migration policies, especially in the context of the European Union. In the first place, community policies on the free circulation of individuals and the recognition of qualifications (for professional or academic ends) are examined. In the second place, an evaluation of recent mobility figures, in Europe and in Portugal, is carried out, bearing in mind the policies of recognition. In the third place, the main obstacles, whether judicial, economic or social, that explain reduced mobility are enumerated. In the fourth place, the movement of staff in the internal work markets of multinational companies (and other organisations) is referred to. In these cases migration is relatively exempt from political obstacles and they make (significant) use of recognition procedures outlined by the EU.