Underlining that there is a "surprisingly high and generalised level of discrimination" against migrant workers in the countries examined, the expert said that the phenomenon also posed a "serious threat for social cohesion."

He called on countries to put in place independent anti-discrimination watchdogs which could give advice to or help defend victims against such abuses.

Such institutions, coupled with firm legislation could help to improve the lot of migrant workers, he added.

"There is a fundamental policy interest" for greater protection of migrant workers, Taran argued.

Discrimination can push migrant workers towards the informal economy, where they would not contribute to the state through taxes or other social contributions, he pointed out.

The ILO report is based on real experiences of resident and migrant job seekers in France, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Denmark.

AFP/EXPATICA