Estimated time of reading: ~ 5 minutes

The global semiconductor shortage has highlighted Europe’s critical dependency on foreign suppliers, particularly from Asia. This disruption has affected numerous industries, from automotive to healthcare, emphasizing the urgent need for the European Union to enhance its technological sovereignty and secure its semiconductor supply chain. As Europe embarks on this transformative journey through the European Chips Act, a pivotal aspect often overlooked is the role of migrants and the implications for migration and asylum policies. Migrants have historically played a vital role in Europe’s economic development, particularly in sectors requiring specialized skills, such as the semiconductor industry. The European Chips Act, enacted in September 2023, aims to revolutionize Europe’s semiconductor ecosystem by fostering innovation, expanding production capabilities, and improving supply chain resilience. To achieve these ambitious goals, the EU recognizes the necessity of attracting and retaining a diverse, highly skilled workforce, a significant portion of which may come from migrant communities. The semiconductor industry is knowledge-intensive, requiring expertise in areas like chip design, manufacturing, and research and development. Europe currently faces a shortage of such specialized skills, making it imperative to attract talent from outside its borders. By offering targeted migration policies that prioritize the admission of skilled workers in high-demand sectors, the EU can tap into a global talent pool, accelerating its progress toward semiconductor sovereignty. The European Chips Act also emphasizes the need to address the skills gap and foster talent within Europe. This initiative includes significant investments in education and training programs to build a robust pipeline of skilled professionals. However, bridging the gap in the short term necessitates a more inclusive approach to migration and asylum policies. By providing pathways for skilled migrants and refugees to integrate into the workforce, Europe can harness their potential to drive innovation and economic growth in the semiconductor sector. To support the development of a skilled workforce, the European Chips Act envisions the establishment of a network of competence centers across Europe. These centers will provide training and education opportunities in microelectronics and semiconductor technologies, ensuring that migrants and asylum seekers with relevant skills can contribute effectively to the industry. Additionally, fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity within these centers will promote social cohesion and help integrate migrants into European society. The role of asylum policies in this context is crucial. The EU must consider how its asylum system can accommodate individuals with skills that align with the needs of the semiconductor industry. By streamlining asylum procedures and providing support for the integration of asylum seekers with relevant expertise, Europe can enhance its workforce while offering opportunities for those seeking refuge. This approach not only addresses humanitarian concerns but also strengthens Europe’s economic resilience by leveraging the skills and talents of those who have sought safety within its borders. Migration policies that facilitate the entry and retention of skilled workers are essential for the success of the European Chips Act. The EU can implement measures such as fast-tracking visa applications for individuals with expertise in semiconductor-related fields, providing incentives for employers to hire migrants, and creating pathways for permanent residency for those who contribute to the industry’s growth. These policies will ensure a steady influx of talent, which is critical for maintaining Europe’s competitive edge in the global semiconductor market. Moreover, the European Chips Act underscores the importance of public and private investment in semiconductor manufacturing facilities. This expansion will inevitably create a demand for a diverse workforce, from engineers and researchers to technicians and operators. Migrants can fill many of these roles, provided that there are supportive policies in place to facilitate their employment and integration into the European labor market. By recognizing the value of a diverse workforce, the EU can drive economic growth and innovation in the semiconductor sector. However, the journey toward semiconductor sovereignty is not without challenges. Europe must address the socio-political complexities associated with migration and asylum policies. Balancing the need for skilled migrants with the public’s perception of migration, ensuring fair treatment of asylum seekers, and fostering an inclusive society are all critical aspects that require careful consideration. The EU must engage in meaningful dialogue with Member States, industry stakeholders, and civil society to develop comprehensive policies that support both economic goals and social cohesion. In conclusion, the European Chips Act represents a significant step toward strengthening Europe’s semiconductor ecosystem and ensuring technological sovereignty. To achieve these objectives, the EU must adopt migration and asylum policies that attract and integrate skilled migrants and asylum seekers into the workforce. By embracing a diverse and inclusive approach, Europe can not only bolster its semiconductor industry but also promote social and economic resilience, paving the way for a prosperous and stable future.

Written by: Nenad Stekić