Migration, as shaped by each country’s migration policy, plays a significant role in how a state functions. For European Union member states, policies formed at the EU level are equally important. Since member states are bound by common rules regarding both the implementation of EU legislation and the transposition of directives into their national legal systems, this master’s thesis focuses on the transposition of Directive 2011/98/EU in three member states: Slovenia, Croatia, and Austria. The introduction of a single permit brought substantial changes, including administrative officials, which is why the research also examines their perspective.
The study is based on three main methods: a descriptive method for outlining legal provisions, a comparative method for analyzing key elements influencing procedures, and a survey conducted among officials at administrative units in Slovenia. In addition, statistical data for Slovenia and Croatia were considered.
Although all three countries largely follow EU legislative guidelines, they differ in how they respond to migration-related challenges. The comparison shows that Croatia aligns its migration policy closely with EU legislation, while Austria places stronger emphasis on its national interests. Slovenia, on the other hand, appeared to be partly unprepared for the changes associated with the transposition of Directive 2011/98/EU. It is important to adopt and implement good practices that have proven effective elsewhere.
Given declining birth rates, an aging population, and increasing global migration pressures, migration will play a crucial role in the future. As it has a strong impact on both the economy and overall well-being, a carefully designed migration policy is essential, one that benefits not only Slovenia but also the wider European community.
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