MIrreM

INTRODUCTION

“Europe is being altered by changes that impact the livelihoods and wellbeing of its citizens. Such changes present important opportunities for the EU to innovate and shape future inclusive societies and economies . Migration is a critical component of the makeup of European societies. Yet, one that is likely to dominate policy agendas for many years to come. It is a topic requiring complete and coordinated European responses in order to mature its benefits, both inside, and outside the EU involving all its member states as well as associated and partner countries”. So, we have asked Tuba about the project and why it is important? Tuba: MIrreM proposes a three-year coordination and support action that will critically review theoretical approaches, concepts, categories and indicators from a comparative and historical perspective. We will bring our quantitative methodological expertise, excellent knowledge of statistical data collection practices as well as qualitative expertise on relevant policies on migration and migrants related irregularities.

Why is it important? Tuba: The task of research is indeed to better understand migration in a global EU context and assist policymakers, support security for all -with no one left behind- and help the socio-economic as well as civil-political inclusion of migrants in European societies. By counting on 17 institutions the consortium brings together researchers from different disciplines amongst others in anthropology, economics, political science, sociology, and law with a strong track record in migration studies. A majority of the MIrreM partners have even a strong track record in policy-oriented research while several partners are specialised in engaging with policymakers and practitioners.

AIM (WHAT)

Targeted policy responses for irregular migration require better knowledge about the characteristics of the irregular migrant population and dynamics of irregular migration, as well as about the effects of policy measures. Yet, quantitative data relating to irregular migration are scarce, often outdated and contested. The inadequacy of current data makes it challenging for stakeholders to develop and monitor policies. How do legal frameworks in different countries define migrant irregularity? What are the characteristics of irregular migrants in terms of age, gender, nationality or other socioeconomic variables? How can the effects of policy measures, such as regularisation, be assessed?

METHODOLOGY (HOW)

MIrreM addresses the challenge of insufficient knowledge about irregular migration and regularisation in Europe by actively involving relevant stakeholders in every stage of this project – as co-creators of its results and as stakeholders to its mission. In a rigorous comparative and multi-level study, we will assess the policies, data needs and estimates that define migrant irregularity in 11 EU member states, the UK, Canada, the USA and five transit countries. Using several coordinated pilots we will develop new and innovative methods for measuring irregular migration and ‘regularisation scenarios’ , we explore if and how these instruments can be transferred or scaled up to other socio-economi or institutional conditions.

IMPACT (WHY)

Based on these insights, two public databases with estimates on irregular migration stocks and irregular migration flows, including regularisation, respectively will be developed. Together with the expert groups, findings will be synthesized into two Handbooks, one on data on irregular migration and one on regularisation that will support evidenced-based and targeted policymaking concerning irregular migration. Training resources will also be developed for policymakers, practitioners, journalists and early-career researchers