Migrants in key sectors and in public opinion

In this scientific workshop, researchers will present and discuss their recent work on the following topics:

1. migrants who are essential workers, those employed in key sectors such as health, long-term care and food supply;
2. attitudes of the public towards immigration, a surprisingly complex factor with real consequences.

Both topics are often studied in the context of the crises that have arisen in recent years. Public attention to the role of migrants during the COVID-19 pandemic even suggests that these two topics may be linked.

Presentations at the workshop will explore whether migrants are over-represented among essential workers. The situation of migrant workers in key sectors will be examined and how they fared during the pandemic. It will be discussed whether public opinion favours this type of migrants and if crises play a particular role in forming public attitudes to immigration.

Further presentations will examine whether high levels of migration have benefitted populist parties and whether public attitudes matter for migrant integration.