MAKING THE MOST OF THE EU INTERNAL MOBILITY - ROMANIAN CITIZENS’ MIGRATION TO THE UK IN THE CONTEXT OF BREXIT, A RACE AGAINST TIME
MAKING THE MOST OF THE EU INTERNAL MOBILITY - ROMANIAN CITIZENS’ MIGRATION TO THE UK IN THE CONTEXT OF BREXIT, A RACE AGAINST TIME

Summary/Abstract: This exploratory study looks at the post-Brexit Referendum Romanian migration to the UK and analyses it as an outstanding case, in contrast to its overall umbrella EU27 migration, which is declining. It tries to offer in-depth explanations for why the Romanian migration is increasing in an apparent disregard for the uncertainty around Brexit and post-Brexit citizens’ rights, which are yet to be agreed as the fourth deadline of 31 January 2020 approaches. It starts by considering the relevant literature and the latest statistical reports which highlight the economic reasons as the main determinants of this migration, then uses a qualitative analysis of interviews to offers more specific explanations for the individual decisions to migrate, even in the uncertain, post-Referendum context. It finds that the decision to migrate is best described as a race against time in relation to Brexit, with Romanians being determined to make the most of what the UK has to offer, while legal conditions still allow it. It also highlights that Romanians have less regard for Brexit-related challenges and more interest in the academic and economic opportunities in the UK.

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