The European Union (EU) is examining ways of better integrating immigrant workers in the region.

According to the commissioner for home affairs, civil society organizations need to be part of debates about the issue and "migrants need to see their rights fully recognized".

"Successful integration is crucial for the well-being of our society," Cecilia Malmstrom declared at the opening session of a meeting of the European Integration Forum.

The event in Brussels focused on civil society and the depiction of migrants by the media and will provide input into EU policy building over the coming months, consulting with organizations in the field to provide information to decision makers.

President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) Mario Sepi told the same forum that the financial crisis can be used to enhance "solidarity".

Established in 2009, the forum works alongside the EESC to hold discussions relating to the integration of foreign nationals from states outside the EU.

Posted by Sarah Dixon