New Europeans Initiative II – Moving Forward to Close the Participation Gap

2026-07-22

The Migration Policy Group (MPG) is an independent think-and-do tank based in Brussels that uses the strength of its innovative research and networks to advance evidence-based policies and foster interaction between research and policymaking at European level. Using diverse methodologies and implementing several actions, MPG will continue to produce comparative knowledge on civic and political participation of New Europeans and related policies, as well as enhance their civic and political engagement at both the EU and national levels. New Europeans are third-country national residents, as well as naturalised migrants, second generations and EU mobile citizens. With rapid demographic change and diversifying societies, the political, civic and societal participation of New Europeans is emerging as a key challenge for the EU and the functioning of European democracy. To contribute to tackle this challenge, MPG focuses on the following four main objectives: 1) to provide sound comparative analysis of civic and political participation policies for New Europeans in all EU Member States and correlate results with participation and integration outcomes, 2) to identify evidence-based policy options on the participation and rights of New Europeans and expand an applied democratic engagement toolbox, 3) to promote the engagement and participation of New Europeans through innovative and effective training formats; 4) to engage with policymakers, policy stakeholders and communities through policy dialogue and disseminate results to key audiences. To achieve these four objectives, MPG conducts research, analysis and produces tools to frame the policy debate, and creates opportunities for mutual learning and engagement of key audiences such as policymakers, policy stakeholders and civil society actors including New European leaders. Activities reach all 27 Member States.

Belgium

2026-02-01