Storm Clouds Ahead? Migration and Labor Force Participation Rates in Europe

Author/Editor:

Benjamin Hilgenstock ; Zsoka Koczan

Publication Date:

June 21, 2018

Electronic Access:

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Disclaimer: IMF Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to encourage debate. The views expressed in IMF Working Papers are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF, its Executive Board, or IMF management.

Summary:

The paper examines the potential effects of international migration on labor force participation in advanced economies in Europe. It documents that migration played a significant role in alleviating aging pressures on labor supply by affecting the age composition of receiving countries’ populations. However, micro-level analysis also points to differences in average educational levels, as well as differences in the effects of any given level of education on participation across migrants and natives. Difficulties related to the recognition of educational qualifications appear to be associated with smaller effects of education on the odds of participation for migrants, especially women.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2018/148

Subject:

English

Publication Date:

June 21, 2018

ISBN/ISSN:

9781484363058/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA2018148

Pages:

24

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