Free movement of people, capital, goods and services is the liberal principle upon which EU integration is built. Freedom of movement in the EU can support the development of a common market, social cohesion and a common EU identity. However, people’s movements within a territory do not have to lead to socio-economic and political integration. Migration and mobility can also have disrupting effects for territorial and cultural community formation. In contrast to assumptions on the positive effects of freedom of movement for EU integration, a strong correlation between EU internal migration and diminishing public support for EU integration has been found. The rights and benefits of EU migrants have become highly salient and contested in member states’ public and political discourse.

The discrepancy between expected integration outcome of EU freedom of movement and increasing opposition towards the policy raises key questions: To what extent does or should freedom of movement in the EU promote social cohesion? How can we explain an increase in opposition? Is opposition motivated by administrations and their uncertainty with regard to the scope of EU law and jurisdiction? Or, have political parties with an anti-European and right wing agenda become successful in promoting restrictions? What is the position of EU institutions, civil society actors and social partners on suggestions to reform EU freedom of movement policy?