Migration is one of the most defining and debated issues of our time, with political, economic and social implications across the globe. While critics often highlight short-term costs — such as pressure on housing, welfare systems and public finances — experts and data consistently show that migration is a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and labor market stability.

Countries like Germany and the United States rely heavily on migrants to fill labor gaps, support aging populations and fuel entrepreneurship, with nearly half of the largest US companies founded by immigrants or their children.

However, successful migration policy requires strategic planning and investment. Challenges like integration costs, infrastructure strain and public skepticism must be addressed through better alignment between labor market needs and migration pathways.

As climate change, conflict and demographic shifts intensify global displacement, experts warn that governments must act now to create humane, economically sound migration systems — or risk social unrest and missed opportunities for prosperity.

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.