As the EU and UK elections approach, there has been a rise in factually incorrect claims regarding immigration in Europe. Migration is a common topic during election campaigns and often leads to inflammatory debates based on false information. For example, a post on Facebook in Spain claimed that nearly 97% of people receiving the country’s minimum basic income were immigrants. However, official data from the Ministry of Inclusion, Social Security, and Migration revealed that only 17.6% of beneficiaries were foreigners, with the bulk of 82.4% being Spanish nationals. The post also inaccurately estimated the number of people receiving the benefit, which was paid to around 600,000 households, encompassing almost 1.8 million individuals.
In another instance, a Dutch far-right activist falsely alleged that the majority of the populations in European capitals such as Amsterdam, Brussels, and London were immigrants, supporting the baseless “great replacement theory.” However, official statistics disprove these claims, showing that only 37% of Amsterdam’s population, 48% of Brussels residents, and 41% of London’s population were born outside their respective countries. Additionally, being born elsewhere does not automatically equate to being an immigrant, as background and nationality are crucial factors to consider. While immigration is undoubtedly a significant issue, it is essential to base claims on factual information rather than spreading false narratives.
With the European elections looming, immigration policy is expected to feature prominently in voters’ minds as they head to the polls. Recent polls have indicated that half of Europeans disapprove of the EU’s current stance on migration and are calling for stricter border controls. This sentiment has been reflected in various national governments and European Parliament candidates taking tough stances on immigration during the campaign period in a bid for more votes. Notable actions include Portugal ending a regime that allowed foreigners to enter the country and subsequently apply for a residence permit and several Irish parties criticizing the government’s perceived “liberal” migration policy.
In response to growing concerns, the EU has approved the New Pact on Migration and Asylum, aiming to reform the bloc’s migration rules and ensure all member states share the responsibility regardless of their location. This move signifies a collective effort to address migration challenges in a more structured and fair manner. As the election draws near, it is evident that immigration will continue to be a crucial talking point, but it is essential for voters to sift through the misinformation and base their decisions on accurate information and policy proposals. While it is valid to have concerns about immigration, it is crucial to approach the topic with a fact-based perspective rather than succumbing to sensationalized claims.
