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Migration flows to OECD countries rose slightly in 2018, with around 5.3 million new, permanent migrants, a 2% increase over 2017. Family and labour migration increased, while the number of asylum applications fell sharply, according to the OECD International Migration Outlook 2019.

Sound macroeconomic policies and favourable external conditions have enabled Iceland’s economy to emerge stronger from a decade of post-crisis management. Yet the impact on growth from a drop in tourist arrivals and seafood exports underlines the need for reforms to open up and diversify the economy, according to the latest OECD Economic Survey.

Finance provided and mobilised by developed countries for action to mitigate and adapt to climate change in developing countries is on an upward trend, new estimates show. It reached USD 71.2 billion in 2017, up from USD 58.6 billion in 2016, according to Climate Finance Provided and Mobilised by Developed Countries in 2013-17.

Demand for tertiary education continues to rise, but its further expansion will only be sustainable if it matches the supply of graduates with labour market and social needs and gives them the skills required to navigate the future, according to a new OECD report.

Policymakers should step up their efforts to bolster public trust in business and finance to reduce risks of contagion if economic growth falters, and to encourage the productive investment and commerce that contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic growth, the OECD Business and Financial Outlook 2019 warns.