This is a 2016 research note published by the European Commission. The first part of this research examines the income and living conditions of migrant populations in the EU relative to the native-born population, including the changes in income and living conditions between 2007-2013. The second part of the research, based on data from the European Social Survey (ESS), examines social attitudes of migrants, again in relation to those of the native-born population, including their trust in institutions and people; their social values, their voting patterns and other forms of civic and political participation; the extent to which they feel part of society and their perception of the extent of discrimination; and social belonging.

With respect to income and living conditions, the report considers, in particular, individuals on low incomes and at risk of poverty, specifically with regard to their age structure, employment situation, education level and household circumstances. The report also examines access to social protection by such individuals (specifically, to unemployment benefits and healthcare), and their housing conditions. The report mainly focuses on whether there is any evidence that the income and living conditions of these individuals has converged towards those of the native-born since 2007.

The report concludes that migrants across the EU are in a less advantageous position than the native-born population in terms of their labour market situation, income, access to healthcare and housing. Moreover, the gap between migrant and native-born populations does not appear to have improved over recent years, and in many aspects it appears to have worsened over the economic crisis period from 2007-2013. These findings show a need to improve the economic and social integration of migrants across the board and to consider the extent to which their disadvantageous position is a reflection of discrimination.

With respect to social attitudes, an important finding is that first generation migrants exhibit higher trust in the legal system, the police and politicians in comparison with both the native-born population and second generation migrants. The report finds no significant difference between the native-born population and first generation migrants in regards to the level of trust in people in general. Similarly, there is no significant difference in values concerning openness and tolerance; migrants are just as likely as the native-born to attach importance to and identify with values of equal treatment, understanding different people and caring for people and the environment.