Evidence briefings

Evidence from the Mediterranean Migration Research Programme on the dynamics of migration to Europe in 2015 and 2016 challenges assumptions about the so-called 'push' and 'pull' factors underpinning the EU policy response.

This briefing discusses recent research from the Mediterranean Migration Research Programme, focusing on search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean Sea, and on states' efforts to manage bodies and human remains and to identify those who die at sea.

This briefing discusses recent research from the Mediterranean Migration Research Programme, focusing on the reception of refugees and migrants and their integration in host states.

By the end of 2015 an estimated 1,008,616 people had reached Europe by sea, more than 84% of them from refugee-producing countries. This report presents questionnaire responses on refugee and migrant reception from Greece, Sicily and Malta, and interviews with migrants and key informants in related sectors.

Rebalancing the economy and closing the productivity gap between Northern cities and London demands radical reform of Britain's political economy, reducing London's dominance.

There are significant geographical differences in UK productivity, which largely may be caused by differences within cities' industry sectors – such as the amount of start-ups and innovation.

University collaborations are valuable for innovation, and new research shows significant benefits for businesses building relationships with universities beyond their local area.

The Government's Industrial Strategy encourages cutting-edge research. There is a need for updated regulation of research ethics to address potential risk scenarios.

Moving to a low-carbon economy is an important part of the Government's Industrial Strategy. A large-scale uptake of electric cars will enable significant cuts in carbon emissions, but needs policy support.

Research evidence urges caution in using local-level innovation policy to drive local economic growth.