Migrants into the European Union (EU) benefit the region economically, socially and culturally, it has been suggested.

The European Commission has unveiled the European Agenda for Integration, which outlines ways in which individuals moving to the EU can be helped to participate fully in collective life.

Under the plans for third-party nationals migrating to the 27 member states, the Brussels-based body has stressed that local authorities have a key role to play.

"Learning the language of the receiving country, getting access to employment and education and having the socio-economic capacity to support themselves are crucial elements for a successful integration" of migrants, said European commissioner for home affairs Cecilia Malmstrom.

According to a Eurobarometer on integration, interaction is important in work and schools, while a lack of language skills is a key barrier to participation and requires "consistent action".

The EU has set a goal of raising employment levels to 75 per cent by 2020, something that labor migration will contribute towards.

Posted by Alex Donnell