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labour market, and social security systems.

One of the key solutions to this challenge is immigration.

The European Union and its Member States are working to establish a migration policy that is effective,

safe, and humane.

All the other Member States of the Council of Europe should promote similar efforts and policies.

Portugal is a clear example of this reality. Today, immigrants represent 10 % of the Portuguese population,

exceeding 1 million people.

However, immigration alone is not enough. We must also focus on increasing birth rates.

Supporting families, ensuring better conditions for young parents, and promoting policies that encourage

higher fertility rates are crucial to addressing demographic decline.

Without these measures, the imbalance in our population structure will only worsen.

At the same time, immigration can only be a real solution if newcomers are properly welcomed and

integrated.

The 2015 refugee crisis tested our ability to respond and highlighted the tensions between security concerns

and humanitarian responsibilities.

It remains a topic of heated debate, reminding us that this challenge requires careful and balanced policies.

Europe needs immigrants, but it must ensure their integration with dignity and respect.

At the same time, we must promote policies that encourage family growth.

Our future depends on how we handle these realities.

We must be prepared to address population aging and build an inclusive society, where challenges become

opportunities.

Thank you.

O Deputado Nuno Fazenda (PS) estava inscrito no debate, mas devido ao elevado número de oradores

inscritos não teve oportunidade de apresentar a sua intervenção, que ficou registada na ata da sessão: Thank you, Mister President.

First of all, I would like to start by thanking to Ms. Kate Osamor for her dedication in preparing this important

report.

Dear colleagues,

Immigration is vital for Europe, including for Portugal, the country where I serve as a member of the

Portuguese parliament.

Immigration is essential for Europe’s economic growth.

Immigration is also essential for enterprises, particularly where the local workforce is not enough or is not

available, such as in social and healthcare, construction, agriculture or tourism and hospitality sectors.

And, importantly, immigration is essential for addressing demographic and ageing challenges. By 2050, over

30 % of Europe’s population will be over the age of 65.

As highlighted by the European Commission, immigrants already contribute billions of euros annually in

taxes and social security.

When we invest in their integration—through education, training, and legal protections—they repay that

investment many times over through their contributions.

Immigration is not just a need for Europe. It is one of our greatest assets to ensure development and

progress.

Dear colleagues,

Immigration is indispensable for Europe’s future.

It is imperative that we embrace: Humanism and not discrimination. Respect and not intolerance. Solidarity

and not individualism.

Guided by these principles, we must craft public policies and laws that welcome, regulate, and integrate

immigrants with dignity and respect.

A successful integration of immigrants fosters mutual respect among people.

Defending immigration with humanism is not only a commitment to human rights, but also a way to support

development and prosperity.