Migration Policy Group Newsletter

Dear ,

Welcome to the February 2025 Edition of the MPG Newsletter!

February brings critical developments in migration, integration, and anti-discrimination. We were deeply disappointed by the European Commission’s withdrawal of the Equal Treatment Directive - a decision that weakens protections against discrimination at a time when they are needed more than ever.

At the same time, MPG continues to push for positive change. CONN-ACT - Connecting through Adult Community Training - is a new initiative focused on strengthening migrant integration through tailored adult education and inclusive policies. The project brings together partners from across Europe to develop strategies for fostering socially cohesive communities.

We are also expanding our efforts to support migrant businesses. Our latest initiative focuses on reducing barriers and creating better opportunities for migrant entrepreneurs by providing tailored support, fostering networks, and advocating for more inclusive economic policies.

Looking ahead, MPG is searching for a new Board Member to help shape our future. This key role will focus on driving resource development and strategic growth, ensuring that MPG continues to expand its impact. If you are passionate about our mission and want to contribute to building more inclusive societies, we encourage you to apply.

Collaboration remains at the heart of our work. At the 8th Permanent Anti-Racism Civil Society Forum, we stood alongside partners calling for stronger action against racial discrimination.

We invite you to explore these updates, stay engaged, and keep pushing with us toward a more inclusive future.

MPG’s 30th anniversary

As we continue celebrating 30 years of MPG, February brings new voices to our anniversary series. This month, we highlight four experts whose work has been closely linked to MPG’s mission in advancing equality and anti-discrimination policies.

Marcel Zwamborn: Director of Human European Consultancy, consortium partner for the European Network of Legal Experts in Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination, monitoring the transposition and implementation of EU gender equality and non-discrimination directives (Netherlands).
Romanița Iordache, Human rights researcher, more than 20 years long-term partner of MPG in many different projects relating to non-discrimination (Romania).
Sophie Latraverse, Human rights lawyer specialised in European discrimination law, has collaborated with MPG for over 20 years, primarily as a legal expert for the European Network of Legal Experts in Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination (France).
Lilla Farkas, Human rights attorney and associate professor at the ELTE university, over 20 years collaboration with MPG on many different projects (Hungary).

Throughout the year, MPG will showcase contributions from policymakers, researchers, civil society leaders, and our dedicated board and staff. Their reflections will highlight MPG’s achievements, ongoing challenges, and the future of migration and integration policies.

For those who missed last month’s launch, our 30th Anniversary hub is live! This page serves as a space for reflection, inspiration, and dialogue on the critical issues shaping migration governance today.

MPG Seeks Board Member for resource development

Migration Policy Group is looking for a strategic leader to join its Board and drive fundraising and resource development. This voluntary role will strengthen MP’s financial sustainability by securing philanthropic support, diversifying funding and forming strategic partnership.

We are seeking and experienced fundraiser and network-builder with a strong track record in securing philanthropic support, engaging high-level donors, and forming strategic partnerships. The ideal candidate is well-connected within donor communities, foundations, and international institutions, with expertise in migration, human rights, or social justice.

Passion for MPG’s mission and the ability to advocate for sustainable funding are key.

MPG calls for reversal of EU Commission’s decision to withdraw equal treatment directive

MPG strongly supports the statement from European civil society organisations condemning the European Commission’s decision to withdraw the Equal Treatment Directive. This vital measure aimed to close gaps in EU anti-discrimination law and provide essential protections for marginalised communities.

Our Director Isabelle Chopin stresses that this withdrawal leaves vulnerable groups exposed in areas like education, healthcare, and housing.

At a time when discrimination is on the rise, MPG urges the Commission to reconsider and work towards a more robust, inclusive solution.

We welcome our new Integration Policy Analyst

Earlier this month we welcomed a new colleague – Dr. Mojib Atal, as our new Integration Policy Analyst.

Mojib Atal, PhD, is a migration scholar who taught at the Technical University of Nuremberg and researched at the Central Institute for Area Studies at the University of Friedrich-Alexander-Erlangen-Nürnberg (2019–2022) and the German Institute for Development Evaluation (2022–2024). He has also worked as a political advisor, consultant, and project manager for government and NGOs.

MPG advocates for stronger action on structural racism at the 8th Permanent Anti-Racism Civil Society Forum

On 29-30 January, MPG joined the EU Permanent Anti-Racism Civil Society Forum in Brussels to assess the EU Anti-Racism Action Plan 2020-2025. MPG highlighted the urgency of tackling structural racism in future EU policies, calling for stronger enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and better equality data collection.

As the European Commission prepares a new strategy for 2025, MPG remains committed to advancing evidence-based policies for a more inclusive Europe.

February media highlights

In an interview with BBC-Persian, Dr. Mojib Atal, MPG’s Integration Policy Analyst, provided insightful commentary on a shocking attack in Munich, Germany, highlighting its potential impact on public opinion and the ongoing federal elections. He cautioned against the generalisation of such acts to all Afghan migrants, emphasising that many Afghans in Germany see themselves as integral members of society. Dr. Atal stressed that fear-driven narratives are neither fair nor justifiable and called for more inclusive integration policies, including psychological support, to foster better societal outcomes. His analysis underscores the importance of evidence-based policies in shaping balanced and constructive migration debates.

In an interview with Voice of America – Pashto, Dr. Mojib Atal, MPG’s Integration Policy Analyst, said that J.D. Vance's statement at the Munich Security Conference highlights fundamental differences between the USA and European countries on migration. Migration is a complex issue requiring a comprehensive approach at national, European, and international levels. Far-right anti-immigrant parties often propose unrealistic solutions, disregarding key factors like conflict, economic disparity, and climate change in countries of origin. Meanwhile, Germany and other European nations have legal obligations under international conventions to protect refugees.