Throughout most of this century, immigration has played a major rile in the development of Western Europe. The prosperity of the continent has been built through the work of third country nationals. Despite this fact, policies towards third country migration have taken on a restrictionist element in the latter part of the 20th century, creating a "Fortress Europe." This ahas occurred despite the fact that Europe has moved towards, regional integration in the period, with the goal of allowing the free movement of people across borders. Additionally, Europe is facing a population crisis that threatens the economic status of the region, requiring a re-think of current policy on migration.
