Strengthening the development potential of the EU Mobility Partnership in Georgia through targeted circular migration and diaspora mobilization

  • Country of destination: Germany
  • Country of origin: Georgia
  • Sectors: Healthcare
  • Skill level: Mid-skill
  • Timeline: June 2013 - June 2016
  • Number of beneficiaries: 28

Overview

This program was part of the implementation of the Pilot Circular Migration Scheme (PCMS), funded by the European Union in the framework of the EU Thematic Program on Migration and Asylum (TPMA). It involved 12-month work placements for 28 Georgian migrants.

Why was it started?

Germany has long experienced labor shortages in the health care and hospitality sector. Employers in the these sectors expressed interest in intensifying international recruitment effects, including with Georgian professionals.The program aimed at achieving a triple win, benefitting migrants, the country of origin, and the country of destination.

How did it work?

The program involved two phases. The initiation phase consisted of assessing interest, identifying labor market needs and migration objectives, and selecting activities. It was followed by the implementation phase, which involved facilitating the migration cycle. Throughout this phase, the program carried out continuous monitoring and evaluation.

What impact did it have?

By the end of the program, 24 participants (14 from the hospitality sector and 10 from the healthcare sector) were completing or had completed the circular migration cycle. Upon their return, 9 of the 14 hospitality professionals were rehired by their former employer. The majority of the nurses passed the recognition exam in Germany and extended their employment there. Five of the hospitality professionals remained in Germany; only 1 of the 10 nurses returned to Georgia, where she was employed.

Despite the small size of the pilot program, evaluators drew some lessons that can help maximize the triple-win effect of circular migration programs: (1) adopt a human rights–based, context-specific program design, based on reliable data and experience; (2) monitor progress and make adjustments as necessary during the course of implementation; (3) agree on a cooperative implementing and monitoring mechanism; and (4) set realistic and well-informed expectations of actors based on reliable information and transparent objectives.