Return Schemes from European Countries: Assessing the Challenges. (25th May 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Scalettaris, Giulia; Gubert, Flore
• Is Part Of: International migration. Volume 57:Number 4(2019)
• Page Start: 91
• Page End: 104
• Publication Date: 2018-05-25
• Subjects: Emigration and immigration -- Periodicals; 304.8
• DOI: 10.1111/imig.12467
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-7985

Abstract

Abstract: Drawing on a review of the academic literature on return migration and return migration policies, as well as on reports and project documentation, this article provides a general assessment of return schemes from European countries, with a focus on those targeting failed asylum‐seekers and irregular migrants. The article first highlights the contrasted understanding of return and reintegration by migration policy‐makers and migration scholars respectively. It then provides an overview of the main challenges, focusing on seven key issues: preparedness to return, the imbalance of represented interests, legal mobility, conditions in the countries of origin, the reintegration package, integration in Europe, and the specific obstacles to return faced by failed asylum‐seekers. The article highlights the need to reassess return policies and frame more realistic schemes.