Strengthening Inclusive Pathways for Migrants Across Europe

Brussels, 27–28 November 2025

We proudly participated in the 10th European Migration Forum (EMF) in Brussels, joining civil society organisations, EU institutions, social partners, and local actors committed to shaping fair and effective integration policies across Europe.

Organised by the European Commission and the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), the Forum remains the EU’s key platform where those working closely with migrants can speak directly to policymakers. This year’s theme, “Harnessing migrants’ skills in the EU,” focused on how Europe can better recognise and support the talents and potential of migrants to benefit individuals, communities, and national economies alike.

COMCY at Roundtable 1 – EU Funds for Labour Market Integration

COMCY participated in Roundtable 1: “EU Funds for Labour Market Integration – Lessons Learned & the Way Forward,” a timely discussion on how EU programmes-such as AMIF and ESF+-can better support migrants in accessing training, employment, and long-term opportunities.

The roundtable brought together organisations from across the EU to reflect on what works, where gaps remain, and how funding can be used more effectively to build sustainable inclusion pathways.

COMCY contributed insights from Cyprus, emphasising early support for newcomers, accessible training opportunities, the importance of community partnerships, and the need to ensure that successful practices continue beyond project cycles.

The Impact of the European Migration Forum

While the Forum is itself a two-day event, its impact stretches far beyond Brussels, influencing EU policies, national strategies, and grassroots action across Member States. This impact can be seen at several levels:

1. Giving Civil Society a Direct Voice in EU Policy

The Forum ensures that the experiences and concerns of organisations working daily with migrants are heard by EU decision-makers. This bottom-up perspective helps shape more realistic, human-centred policies that reflect real challenges and opportunities across Europe.

2. Strengthening Cooperation Across Sectors and Countries

The EMF brings together actors who rarely sit in the same room: NGOs, cities, employers, trade unions, EU institutions, migrant-led groups, and service providers. This creates a shared understanding of priorities and encourages new partnerships, joint initiatives, and cross-border collaborations.

3. Improving the Design and Use of EU Funding

Through discussions on programmes such as AMIF, ESF+, Erasmus+, and CERV, the Forum helps the European Commission understand what works at local level and where changes are needed. This feedback contributes to more accessible funding calls, clearer procedures, and more strategic support for integration.

4. Highlighting the Value of Migrants’ Skills and Contributions

By showcasing positive stories, employer initiatives, city strategies, and successful community projects, the Forum shifts the narrative from “problems to solve” to potential to unlock. This helps combat stereotypes and strengthen public support for inclusive policies.

5. Inspiring Action and Innovation

Participants leave the Forum with new ideas, good practices, and tried-and-tested models they can adapt in their own contexts. The event acts as a catalyst for innovation in training, employment pathways, anti-exploitation initiatives, and community engagement.

6. Supporting Long-Term EU Objectives

The insights shared at the EMF feed into broader EU strategies on skills development, integration, labour mobility, and social inclusion. Over time, these collective contributions help build a more cohesive, resilient, and inclusive European society.

Moving Forward

For COMCY, taking part in this year’s Forum offered an important opportunity to exchange ideas, learn from other European organisations, and bring the Cypriot experience into the wider EU discussion. We return inspired and committed to continuing our work in promoting skills development, equal opportunities, and inclusive participation for all.