The International Labour Organization recently convened the Linking India–EU Migration Opportunities with the Northeast Corridor workshop in Guwahati, Assam, as part of the EU–India Cooperation and Dialogue on Migration and Mobility Project. The event was organized in partnership with the International Centre for Migration Policy Development and the Indian Council of World Affairs, with support from the Ministry of External Affairs, the Government of Assam, and the European Union Delegation to India and Bhutan. The workshop formed part of a State Engagement Programme designed to bring together key stakeholders from government institutions, academia, industry, and organizations involved in recruitment and skills development.
The discussions were inaugurated by Assam’s Chief Secretary Dr. Ravi Kota, with participation from senior government representatives from the northeastern states of Sikkim, Manipur, Assam, and Nagaland. Participants shared ongoing initiatives aimed at promoting safe and legal migration pathways while strengthening the region’s engagement with international labour markets, particularly in Europe. The event highlighted the willingness of these states to build stronger cooperation with European partners to expand opportunities for skilled migration.
The workshop focused on identifying region-specific opportunities and challenges related to international migration, including engagement with representatives from European Union member states such as Germany and Italy. Participants explored ways to strengthen skills anticipation systems and improve alignment between workforce skills and labour market demands in both India and Europe. Discussions also emphasized the importance of responsible pre-departure preparation to ensure that aspiring migrants from Northeast India are better informed and protected when seeking employment abroad.
Throughout the event, the project’s technical tools and knowledge resources were presented to support evidence-based policymaking and inclusive migration governance. By fostering dialogue among government authorities, industry representatives, and international partners, the workshop aimed to enhance cooperation on labour mobility while promoting safer migration pathways and better employment prospects for workers from India’s northeastern region.
