On top of this, the UK has to face the effects of Brexit, which caused a significant shortfall of EU workers. Alternative solutionsIn the current system, migrant workers are essential to fill shortages and sustain host countries’ economies. I took part in a recent research project analysing how such a partnership, between Pakistan and five EU countries, can be taken forward. Ideally, they are also good for migrant workers, who can have access to employment opportunities through safe and legal routes. A simplistic focus on getting the numbers down fails to acknowledge the importance of a well-managed labour migration system for the economy.