Olaf van Vliet on NPO Radio 1 about the consequences of labour migration for the economy and society
The European Commission sees increased labour migration as a solution to the growing personnel shortages, but the Dutch Labour Inspectorate argues that this is not a tenable business model. Professor of Economics Olaf van Vliet discusses the advantages and disadvantages of labour migration for the economy and society on NPO Radio 1.
The advantages and disadvantages of labour migration are unevenly distributed in society. Labour migrants reduce personnel shortages and make a positive contribution to the economy through the work they do. At the same time, an increase in the number of labour migrants puts more pressure on the housing market, for example. So how can the advantages and disadvantages of an increase in labour migration be weighed against each other? According to Van Vliet, it would be wise to identify these advantages and disadvantages more precisely for each sector or profession where there is a shortage of personnel. On that basis, more explicit assessments could be made.
In addition, Van Vliet emphasises that labour migration is not the only option when it comes to reducing personnel shortages. Increasing productivity would also be a good solution.
During the broadcast, Olaf van Vliet discussed this with presenter Tijs van den Brink, SP MP Bart van Kent and Deltalinqs chairman Victor Van der Chijs.
Listen to the broadcast (in Dutch) of NPO Radio 1 programme ‘Dit is de Dag’ via: https://www.nporadio1.nl/fragmenten/dit-is-de-dag/95fd500c-4608-4b4c-a0e5-cccb87cc971a/2022-05-09-is-meer-arbeidsmigratie-noodzakelijk-om-het-personeelstekort-op-te-lossen