Europe seeks immigration solutions from Australia

According to European polls and many EU officials, the issue of uncontrolled Muslim immigration into Europe has been a policy maker’s disaster. It is a controversial if patriotic standpoint but one which could benefit from the study of how Australia handles the question.

Australia is held in high regard by many European lawmakers for the apparent success and sustainability of its immigration policy.

The most admired principles are those that see Australia effectively select its immigrants, based on family and government cohesion, skill levels and that there is, in general, public support for the policy.

Australia has had well documented instances of ‘boat people’ arriving from Asia but the numbers are miniscule when compared to the migrant levels seen across Europe. Australia has maintained a consistent approach to protecting its borders which is something which most European countries aspire to but ongoing conflict about a common policy agreement has made the task all the more difficult. Muslim immigration continues to polarise public opinion in most European theatres.

France is particular has looked to the Australian model to replace its policy which allowed greater assimilation in the 1950’s and 60’s. French officials have publicly commended Australian immigration policy for its practice of making clear to potential applicants that they would be welcomed if they made a mutually beneficial contribution.

The biggest issue facing Europe is the free movement of people across the continent. No government wants to stop this freedom but rather wants European borders in general monitored more effectively.

Muslim numbers are estimated at around 25 million in Europe with France and the Netherlands the most high profile host countries. Both adopted paths, albeit of opposite values, to assimilation which ultimately have not worked with discrimination increasing.

Experts claim that the Australian notion of creating an ideal and welcoming people into it is far more effective than imposing conditions on foreign nationals. The Australian government also works together with local ethnic groups to maintain its policy. The biggest difference is that Australia, through policy or physical state as a semi-remote island, allows officials to choose who is allowed in, something that Europe continues to strive towards.