Migration and Refugees

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Migration is a ubiquitous process in our globalized world. People are leaving their home countries aiming for better economic perspectives. Others are forced to do so because of political persecution or conflicts. A forward-looking migration policy based on humanitarian principles is in need, which is also appealing to the political responsibilities of decision makers in the countries of origin.

by Gerhard Wahlers

Models and Perspectives of European Refugee Policy

Different policy areas deal with aspects of migration. In terms of shaping development and foreign policy positions, the migration situation in the regions of origin and transit regions has to be considered carefully. Although it is impossible to fully control the flows of refugees by providing a political framework in a farsighted and proactive manner, this will be the most appropriate way to assume political responsibility.

by Katharina Senge

Facts and Grafics

Grafics illustrate basic principles of international law and legislation, age pattern of migrants and Migration withinthe continents.

Morocco shares a common external border with the European Union due to the Spanish exclaves of Ceuta and Melilla. Therefore, the North African country has become a center of transnational migration. Thousands of migrants, mainly from Sub-Saharan Africa, are dwelling in Morocco and attempt to reach the exclaves. Since the migratory pressure will not decrease, the country is facing a severe test.

by Helmut Reifeld

The everyday reality of about twelve million Filipinos overseas vary tremendously. While many have succeeded in the U.S., migrant workers in the Gulf States face inhumane working conditions and exploitation. In that respect, the Philippine government is aiming for stricter laws. However, creating better and sustainable living conditions in the Philippines is far more important for people to have an alternative to migration.

by Benedikt Seemann, Miriam Fischer

Magnitude, Causes and Proposed Solutions

For decades Central Americans have been drawn to the United States. Whereas civil wars and dictatorships caused migration in the past, today’s – also irregular – influx of people remains steady mainly for economic reasons and due to family reunions. This raises the question of responsibility of the countries of origin. Simultaneously, immigration has gained a more prominent spot on the domestic agenda of the U.S. The presidential elections 2016 are already on the horizon.

by Dinorah Azpuru, Violeta Hernández

Interview with Jürgen Langen, Head of the KAS office in Zimbabwe

Unemployment, poverty and especially the dictatorship of Robert Mugabe force people from Zimbabwe to emigrate. Thousands of doctors, journalists, academics and craftsmen are leaving their country. Most of them try to rebuild their livelihoods in neighboring South Africa. There, however, they face outright rejection and xenophobia.

Interview with Steffen Krüger, Head of the KAS office in DR Congo

The main causes for the migration of the DR Congo are the many internal and regional conflicts. As a consequence, millions of people have become internally displaced persons in their own country. Numerous NGOs and church-run initiatives try to ease the calamity. But as long as the region remains instable flight and expulsion are going to dominate the scene.