Europe's Migration Crisis: A Consequence Of Stricter EU Policies?

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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The Evolution of EU Migration Policies

From Open Borders to Increased Restrictions

The EU's approach to migration has undergone a significant shift. The initial post-war period saw relatively open borders, facilitated by the Schengen Agreement, which abolished internal border controls among participating member states. However, events like the 2015 refugee crisis prompted a reassessment, leading to increased restrictions and a more securitized approach to migration management.

• Dublin Regulation: This regulation initially placed the responsibility for processing asylum applications on the first EU country of entry, leading to significant strain on frontline states like Greece and Italy. Subsequent modifications have attempted to address these imbalances but have faced criticism for their limitations.
• Schengen Border Controls Reinforcement: Following the 2015 crisis, several member states reintroduced temporary border controls within the Schengen area, highlighting the tensions between free movement and security concerns within the EU. This has resulted in a more fragmented and less efficient system.

The impact of these changes is visible in the data. While precise figures vary depending on the source and methodology, studies show a significant decrease in irregular migration to some EU countries after the implementation of stricter border controls, however, this has also shifted the patterns and dangers of migration. Expert opinion is divided, with some arguing that stricter policies deter migration and enhance security, while others highlight the unintended consequences, such as increased irregular migration and human rights violations.

The Push and Pull Factors Influencing Migration

Factors Driving Migration from Origin Countries

People flee their home countries for a multitude of complex reasons, often intertwined and difficult to disentangle. These "push" factors drive individuals to seek refuge or better opportunities elsewhere.

• Conflict and Persecution: Ongoing conflicts in countries like Syria, Afghanistan, and several African nations force millions to seek safety and protection, fueling significant refugee flows towards Europe.
• Economic Hardship: Poverty, lack of opportunities, and widespread unemployment in many origin countries drive economic migration, with individuals seeking better livelihoods in Europe.
• Climate Change: Increasingly, climate change acts as a “push” factor, forcing people from their homes due to droughts, floods, and other environmental disasters. This is expected to become a more significant factor in future migration flows.

The UNHCR and other international organizations provide detailed data on refugee flows and displacement, painting a stark picture of the desperation driving many migrants.

The Allure of European Destinations

"Pull" factors attract migrants to Europe, offering perceived advantages over their home countries.

• Economic Opportunities: The perception of better job prospects, higher wages, and economic stability in Europe is a powerful draw for many migrants.
• Social Safety Nets: European countries often boast robust social welfare systems, including healthcare, education, and unemployment benefits, offering a degree of security unavailable in many origin countries.
• Family Reunification: The possibility of joining family members already settled in Europe is a key driver for many migrants.

Economic indicators, social welfare data, and qualitative studies exploring migrant perceptions confirm the attractiveness of European countries for various reasons, though these vary significantly between countries and specific migrant groups.

The Impact of Stricter Border Controls

Increased Irregular Migration

Stricter border controls, while aiming to reduce overall migration, often lead to unintended consequences.

• Rise of Smuggling Networks: Increased restrictions make it harder for migrants to enter legally, leading to reliance on dangerous and exploitative smuggling networks.
• More Dangerous Routes: Migrants are forced to take increasingly perilous routes, including dangerous sea crossings and traversing hostile terrains, increasing risks of death or exploitation.

Reports from NGOs working with migrants reveal the harrowing realities of these irregular migration routes and the suffering endured by vulnerable migrants. Data on migrant deaths at sea tragically underscore the human cost of these restrictive policies.

Strain on Asylum Systems

Stricter border controls, ironically, can strain existing asylum systems.

• Overloaded Asylum Centers: Increased numbers of asylum seekers arriving irregularly can overwhelm asylum processing capabilities, leading to overcrowded and inadequate facilities.
• Lengthy Processing Times: Backlogs in asylum applications result in prolonged uncertainty and hardship for applicants, potentially violating human rights.

Reports from human rights organizations highlight numerous cases of human rights violations within asylum systems struggling to cope with the increased pressure stemming from restrictive border controls.

Alternative Approaches to Migration Management

Promoting Legal Migration Pathways

Expanding legal migration pathways can alleviate pressure on irregular migration and address labor shortages.

• Skilled Worker Programs: Targeted programs attracting skilled workers can benefit both migrants and host countries.
• Humanitarian Visas: Increased access to humanitarian visas can provide safe and legal routes for those fleeing persecution or conflict.

Successful legal migration programs in various countries demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach. Economic analyses show the potential benefits of legal migration for both migrants and host economies.

Strengthening International Cooperation

Greater collaboration between the EU and countries of origin is essential for addressing the root causes of migration.

• Development Aid: Investing in development projects in origin countries can address poverty, conflict, and instability.
• Joint Efforts in Border Management: Collaborating with origin countries to improve border security and combat human trafficking can create more effective and humane migration control systems.

Successful international cooperation initiatives demonstrate the potential for collaborative efforts to manage migration more effectively and fairly.

Conclusion: Europe's Migration Crisis: Finding Solutions Through Policy Reform

Europe's migration crisis is a complex issue with no easy solutions. This article has argued that stricter EU policies, while intending to control migration flows, have inadvertently contributed to the challenges of managing the crisis, leading to increased irregular migration, strained asylum systems, and humanitarian concerns. A more holistic and humane approach is needed. This requires a shift towards expanding legal migration pathways, strengthening international cooperation, and addressing the root causes of migration. Understanding the complexities of Europe's migration crisis requires a critical examination of existing EU policies. Let's engage in informed discussions to advocate for more humane and effective solutions to manage Europe's migration crisis responsibly and justly.