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Securitization of Migration in the EU and Africa: A Case Study

The phenomenon of migration, seen at every stage of human history, became politicized after the Second World War, was restricted after the 1973 oil crisis, and was included among the various security issues after the Cold War. As a result of the 9/11 attacks and the explosions in the leading cities in Europe, migration became the focus of security policies. This study analyzes the securitization of migration from Africa to Europe as a case study through the lens of the Copenhagen School and explores the European Union’s efforts to create a common migration policy. It asks to what extent the relationship between migration and security affects these and argues that decisions taken under the influence of securitization hinder the creation of an effective immigration policy. It assesses the success or failure of these policies and asks why the unsuccessful policies failed.

Securitization of Migration in the EU and Africa A Case
A Libyan coast guardsman stands on a boat during the rescue of 147 illegal immigrants attempting to reach Europe off the coastal town of Zawiyah, 45 km west of the capital Tripoli, on June 27, 2017. TAHA JAWASHI / AFP via Getty Images
 

 

 

 

Introduction

 

Migration is the movement of people from their native lands to another country in order to live in better conditions. It is often motivated by the desire to escape from famine, civil war, or occupation. Yet, the phenomenon of migration, which is an ancient social reality, cannot be defined merely as the physical displacement of individuals or communities. In addition to a change of place, migration refers to an entire process that at times includes arduous travel, extreme risk, and, if successful, adaptation to a host society.1 The phenomenon of international migration, in particular, necessitates a series of socio-economic and cultural changes to the persons undertaking migration, and to both the origin and destination country. Thus, migration is a social phenomenon that has both causes and consequences for the countries of origin and destination.2

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