The welfare state is often assumed to play an important role in migration decisions. To scrutinize this assumption, we study how welfare systems in destination and origin countries shape migration patterns within and towards Europe. In addition, we examine how the transferability of welfare entitlements influences mobility. We combine micro- and macro-perspectives and apply a mixed-method approach that combines existing statistics and migration data with new data collections in seven countries.
The Mobile Welfare project coordinated this international research project with project teams in the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. It receives funding from Norface. More information on the project can be found at http://www.mobile-welfare.org/.
