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E-Policy Brief Nr. 1:

The European Union’s Migration

and Development Policy

January 2012

E-Policy Brief Nr.1: The EU’s Migration and Development Policy

The Africa-Europe Platform is financed by the European Union and co

the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the

Table of Contents

Introduction ................................

Overview of EU Documents and Activities

The EU Approach to Migration and Development

The Global Approach to Migration

EU Multi Annual Strategy Paper 2011

« Cooperation with 3rd Countries in the areas of Migration

Africa-EU Strategic Partnership

Partnership 7-Migration, Mobility and Employment

Table 1: Policy Propositions by the European Union concerning migration and deve

Policy Analysis ................................

Policy Recommendations ................................

Conclusion ................................

References ................................

Policy Brief Nr.1: The EU’s Migration and Development Policy

Europe Platform is financed by the European Union and co-financed by the Swiss Development Corporation,

the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit

................................................................................................................................

Overview of EU Documents and Activities..........................................................................................

The EU Approach to Migration and Development ................................................................

The Global Approach to Migration ................................................................................................

EU Multi Annual Strategy Paper 2011-2013 – Thematic Programme :

Cooperation with 3rd Countries in the areas of Migration and Asylum » ................................

EU Strategic Partnership – Action Plan 2011-2013:

Migration, Mobility and Employment ................................................................

Propositions by the European Union concerning migration and deve

................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................

2 financed by the Swiss Development Corporation,

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit

......................................... 3

..........................................................................................5

.............................................. 5

.................................. 5

.................................... 5

...................................... 6

Propositions by the European Union concerning migration and development ....... 7

..................................... 9

.................................................. 12

......................................... 13

....................................... 134




Introduction

This is the first edition of a series of e

Briefs published by the Africa

Platform, a European-wide network of African

diaspora organisations. The main purpose of

these e-Policy Briefs is to enhance knowledge

among diaspora organisations on k

migration and development

issues as well as to raise policymakers’

awareness of the views of African diaspora

organisations on key M&D policy issues.

The main focus of this first e-Policy Brief

current EU migration and development

policy. Following policy briefs are going to be

devoted to, e.g., the EU Member States’ and

African countries’ M&D policy.

The EU’s M&D policy is rather complex and

covers many aspects. In this policy brief,

timeline with the main EU policy documen

agreements and activities is presented.

Political and technical dialogue with African

countries has been particularly

levels since 2005 when the EU’s Global

Approach to Migration was established

The two main strategic tools to implement this

Global Approach to Migration in Africa

currently the EU 2011-2013 Multi

Strategy Paper for the Thematic Programme

on “Cooperation with Third Countries i

areas of Migration and Asylum

Programme) and the Joint Africa

Action Plan 2011-2013 which contains the

Africa-EU Partnership on Migration, Mobility

and Employment (MME).

These three main documents1 functioned as a

basis for the consultation with African

diaspora members based in Europe and active

1 Global Approach to Migration, Thematic

Programme & Partnership on MME




edition of a series of e-Policy

Briefs published by the Africa-Europe

wide network of African

ions. The main purpose of

riefs is to enhance knowledge

among diaspora organisations on key

(M&D) policy

to raise policymakers’

of the views of African diaspora

policy issues.

Policy Brief is the

EU migration and development (M&D)

Following policy briefs are going to be

, the EU Member States’ and

policy is rather complex and

policy brief, a

he main EU policy documents,

is presented.

Political and technical dialogue with African

countries has been particularly active at all

levels since 2005 when the EU’s Global

was established.

to implement this

Approach to Migration in Africa are

2013 Multi-Annual

Strategy Paper for the Thematic Programme

operation with Third Countries in the

nd Asylum” (Thematic

rica-EU Strategic

2013 which contains the

on Migration, Mobility

functioned as a

basis for the consultation with African

diaspora members based in Europe and active

Global Approach to Migration, Thematic

in the field of M&D. With the input of these

experts, concrete policy recommendations for

the EU’s M&D policies have been elaborated

(see p. 9). In short, it is argued for a stronger

role and integration of the African diaspora

when it comes to developing a

implementing M&D policies at EU level.

If you are interested in contributing

upcoming e-Policy Briefs

for future issues, please contact us by e

[email protected].

Coming up:


EU Member States’ Mig

Development Policy


African countries’ Migration and

Development Policy

The EU's Global

Approach to Migration

EU Thematic Programme on "Cooperation

with 3rd countries in the

areas of Migration and

Asylum"



n the field of M&D. With the input of these

experts, concrete policy recommendations for

the EU’s M&D policies have been elaborated

In short, it is argued for a stronger

role and integration of the African diaspora

when it comes to developing and

implementing M&D policies at EU level.

If you are interested in contributing to

or if you have ideas

, please contact us by e-mail:

Policy Brief Nr. 2:

EU Member States’ Migration and

Development Policy

Policy Brief Nr. 3:

African countries’ Migration and

Development Policy

The EU's Global

Approach to Migration

Africa EU Partnership on

Migration, Mobility and Employment




Overview of EU Documents and Activities- Multi-annual "Tampere Programme"

Migration and Asylum based on the Treaty of Amsterdam 1998)

- The ACP (African, Caribbean & Pacific)

Cotonou and revised in 2010. The ma

Activities are financed through the European Development Fund (EDF).

- EC Communication on "

COM(2002) 703 final, December 3, 2002

- Adoption of the “Global Approach to Migration”

- EC Communication on

COM(2005)390, September 1, 2005, outlines the potential of temporary migration circulation,

facilitating return migration and temporary or virtual return.

- Adoption of the multi

- EC Communication on “The

comprehensive European Migration Policy

related EU policies, based

and close practical cooperation.

- Tripoli Ministerial Conference and Declaration on Migration and Development (November 2006)

- Ministerial Conference on migration and development in

- EC Communication on “

countries”, COM(2007)248, May 16, 2007, is about developing mobility partnerships and circular

migration.

- Draft Council Conclusions on Mobility Partnerships and Circular Migration in the Framework of

the Global Approach to Migration, 16283/07, December 7, 2007

The Commission launches the

areas of Migration and Asylum”

• 1st

Strategy Paper (2007

- Launching of the “Africa

Employment Partnership”

• 1st

Action Plan (2008

Conference in Nov

- Interim Progress Report on the “Progress of th

SEC(2007) 1632 (Global Approach to Migration)


coordination, coherence and synergies

- “European Pact on Immigration & Asylum

- CIGEM – Inauguration of the Migration Information and Management Centre

- 25 November 2008: 2

Cooperation Programme on Migration and Development in Paris (Global Approach)

- High Level Parliamentary Conference on Policy Coherence for Development and Migration, h

in Brussels, in February 2009 as part of the ACP

- EU Blue Card Council Directive

- Multi-annual “Stockholm Programme

- ACP-EU Council of ministers intensifies dialogue on migration issues (May 2011)


November 2011

2000

1999

2002

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2011




Overview of EU Documents and Activities annual "Tampere Programme" (newly acquired competence of the EU in the area of

Migration and Asylum based on the Treaty of Amsterdam 1998)

ACP (African, Caribbean & Pacific)-EU Partnership Agreement has been signed in 2000 in

Cotonou and revised in 2010. The main decision-making body is the ACP-EU Council of Ministers.

Activities are financed through the European Development Fund (EDF).

EC Communication on "Integrating Migration issues in the EU's Relations with 3rd Countries

COM(2002) 703 final, December 3, 2002 (focus on migration control)

Adoption of the “Global Approach to Migration”

EC Communication on “Migration and Development: Some concrete orientations”


urn migration and temporary or virtual return.

-annual “Hague Programme” on EU migration policies

EC Communication on “The Global Approach to Migration one year on: Towards a

comprehensive European Migration Policy” – COM(2006) 735 combines all migration/asylum

related EU policies, based on partnership with developing countries involving political dialogue

and close practical cooperation.

Tripoli Ministerial Conference and Declaration on Migration and Development (November 2006)

Ministerial Conference on migration and development in Rabat (July 2006) (on Global Approach)

EC Communication on “Circular migration and mobility partnerships between the EU and third

COM(2007)248, May 16, 2007, is about developing mobility partnerships and circular

Draft Council Conclusions on Mobility Partnerships and Circular Migration in the Framework of

the Global Approach to Migration, 16283/07, December 7, 2007

The Commission launches the Thematic Programme “Cooperation with Third Countries in the

areas of Migration and Asylum”

Strategy Paper (2007-2010) & 2nd

Strategy Paper (2011-2013)

Africa-EU Strategic Partnership; Partnership 7: Migration, Mobility &

Employment Partnership” (Lisbon, December 2007)

Action Plan (2008-2010) & 2nd

Action Plan (2011-2013)(adopted during Tripoli

Conference in November 2010)

Interim Progress Report on the “Progress of the overall approach in the field of migration

SEC(2007) 1632 (Global Approach to Migration)

EC Communication on “Strengthening the Global Approach to Migration: Increasing

coordination, coherence and synergies”; COM(2008) 611 final

European Pact on Immigration & Asylum” (built upon Global Approach to Migration)

Inauguration of the Migration Information and Management Centre

2nd

Euro-African Ministerial Conference on M&D – Adoption of the


High Level Parliamentary Conference on Policy Coherence for Development and Migration, h

, in February 2009 as part of the ACP-EU Partnership

EU Blue Card Council Directive 2009/50/EC (on residence in the EU for highly skilled workers)

Stockholm Programme” replaces the “Hague Programme”

EU Council of ministers intensifies dialogue on migration issues (May 2011)

EC Communication on “The Global Approach to Migration and Mobility”, COM(2011)743



(newly acquired competence of the EU in the area of

has been signed in 2000 in

EU Council of Ministers.

Integrating Migration issues in the EU's Relations with 3rd Countries",

“Migration and Development: Some concrete orientations”,


” on EU migration policies

one year on: Towards a

COM(2006) 735 combines all migration/asylum-

on partnership with developing countries involving political dialogue

Tripoli Ministerial Conference and Declaration on Migration and Development (November 2006)

Rabat (July 2006) (on Global Approach)

Circular migration and mobility partnerships between the EU and third

COM(2007)248, May 16, 2007, is about developing mobility partnerships and circular

Draft Council Conclusions on Mobility Partnerships and Circular Migration in the Framework of

Thematic Programme “Cooperation with Third Countries in the

2013)

EU Strategic Partnership; Partnership 7: Migration, Mobility &

(adopted during Tripoli

e overall approach in the field of migration” –

: Increasing

” (built upon Global Approach to Migration)

Inauguration of the Migration Information and Management Centre in Mali

Adoption of the


High Level Parliamentary Conference on Policy Coherence for Development and Migration, held

2009/50/EC (on residence in the EU for highly skilled workers)

EU Council of ministers intensifies dialogue on migration issues (May 2011)

”, COM(2011)743 final,




The EU Approach to Migration and

Development


The Global Approach to Migration has been

adopted in 2005. The EU’s aim was to

establish an intersectoral framework to

manage migration in a coherent way through

political dialogue and close cooperation with

third countries.

The Global Approach can be defined as the

external dimension of the European Union’s

migration policy. Its thematic basis consists

out of three pillars: management of legal

migration and mobility, fight against irregular

immigration and migration & development

The European Commission (EC) ensures that

all aspects of EU-Africa cooperation are

implemented and evaluated at the political

level through successive ministerial meetings.

For instance, during the EU-Africa Summit in

Lisbon (December 2007), the common

approach established as an outcome of the

first ever Euromed ministerial meeting on

migration in Albufeira (November 2007) has

been translated into concrete terms through

the adoption of the EU-Africa Partnership on


EC funds for initiatives under the Global

Approach originate from the Thematic

Programme, the Solidarity and Migration

Flows Programme as well as the Geographic

instruments Meda and ENPI (formerly Tacis)

and the European Development Fund (EDF).

2 This policy brief focuses on the third pillar, M&D

(see Table 1).




The EU Approach to Migration and


The Global Approach to Migration has been

adopted in 2005. The EU’s aim was to

establish an intersectoral framework to

herent way through

political dialogue and close cooperation with

The Global Approach can be defined as the

external dimension of the European Union’s

migration policy. Its thematic basis consists

out of three pillars: management of legal

igration and mobility, fight against irregular

development2.

The European Commission (EC) ensures that

Africa cooperation are

implemented and evaluated at the political

level through successive ministerial meetings.

Africa Summit in

Lisbon (December 2007), the common

approach established as an outcome of the

first ever Euromed ministerial meeting on

migration in Albufeira (November 2007) has

been translated into concrete terms through

Africa Partnership on

Migration, Mobility and Employment.

EC funds for initiatives under the Global

Approach originate from the Thematic

Programme, the Solidarity and Migration

Flows Programme as well as the Geographic

a and ENPI (formerly Tacis)

and the European Development Fund (EDF).

This policy brief focuses on the third pillar, M&D,

Thematic Programme : «

with 3rd Countries in the areas of

Migration and Asylum »

Since 2007, the Commission has been

implementing a Thematic Programme entitled

“Cooperation with Third Countries in the areas

of Migration and Asylum”. Currently, the

second EU Multi Annual Strategy Paper 2011

2013 is in place.

The general objective is to support third

countries in ensuring better management of

migratory flows in all their dimens

Programme covers all the essential thematic

facets of the migratory phenomenon, namely,


migration, irregular immigration, trafficking in

human beings, migrant’s rights, asylum, and

international protection. Howev

programme does not tackle the root causes of

migration such as lack of access to

employment and education in the home

countries.

Clear priority is given to the Southern

Mediterranean, African and Eastern European

regions and priority will be give

themes, initiatives and instruments of the

Global Approach to Migration (see Table 1).

The EU has also increased its support to

organisations such as the International Centre

for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD),

through which it has dev

actions aiming mainly at improving migration

management capacities in third countries.

Of interest in this context are also the

coordination efforts and exchange of best

practices which take place under the

Forum on Migration and Dev

(GFMD), a recent initiative of the United

Nations Member States

maximizing the development benefits of

migration. The GFMD is closely followed and

observed by the EU and its MSs. To the yearly



: « Cooperation

with 3rd Countries in the areas of

»

Since 2007, the Commission has been

implementing a Thematic Programme entitled

ith Third Countries in the areas

of Migration and Asylum”. Currently, the

second EU Multi Annual Strategy Paper 2011-

The general objective is to support third

countries in ensuring better management of

migratory flows in all their dimensions. The

Programme covers all the essential thematic

facets of the migratory phenomenon, namely,

migration and development, labour

migration, irregular immigration, trafficking in

human beings, migrant’s rights, asylum, and

international protection. However, this

programme does not tackle the root causes of

migration such as lack of access to

employment and education in the home

Clear priority is given to the Southern

Mediterranean, African and Eastern European

regions and priority will be given to certain

themes, initiatives and instruments of the

Global Approach to Migration (see Table 1).

The EU has also increased its support to

organisations such as the International Centre

for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD),

through which it has developed several

at improving migration

management capacities in third countries.

Of interest in this context are also the

coordination efforts and exchange of best

practices which take place under the Global

Forum on Migration and Development

a recent initiative of the United

Nations Member States with the aim of

maximizing the development benefits of

GFMD is closely followed and

observed by the EU and its MSs. To the yearly




Forum all main actors in the field

governments, universities, international and

non-governmental organisations and research

institutes are invited to participate in

separately organised Civil Society and

Government Days.3

The five major fields of action of the Thematic

Programme are fostering the links between

migration and development4, promoting well

managed labour migration, preventing

curbing irregular immigration and facilitating

the readmission of illegal immigrants

protecting migrants especially

vulnerable and promoting asylum and

international protection.

From the budget of the Thematic Programme,

an indicative amount of € 68 million will be

allocated to support actions in the

Mediterranean (Northern Africa), Sub

Africa and Middle East region.

According to the applicable rules, grants will

be normally awarded through

Proposals.

The European Commission regularly uploads

Calls for Proposals on its website.

information please go to Europe

http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/what/migratio

n-asylum/index_en.htm

Africa-EU Strategic Partnership

Plan 2011-2013: Partnership 7


The Africa-EU Migration, Mobility and

Employment (MME) Partnership was launched

during the 2nd Africa-EU Summit of Heads of

State and Government in December 2007 in

Lisbon, where the Joint EU-Africa Strategy

3 For more information see: www.gfmd.org4 The 1

st field is of most interest for this policy brief.




main actors in the field, including

s, universities, international and

governmental organisations and research

institutes are invited to participate in

separately organised Civil Society and

five major fields of action of the Thematic

ostering the links between

romoting well-

reventing and

curbing irregular immigration and facilitating

illegal immigrants,

especially those most

romoting asylum and

From the budget of the Thematic Programme,

68 million will be

allocated to support actions in the Southern

Mediterranean (Northern Africa), Sub-Saharan

According to the applicable rules, grants will

be normally awarded through Calls for

regularly uploads

on its website. For more

EuropeAid’s website:


EU Strategic Partnership – Action

2013: Partnership 7-


EU Migration, Mobility and

Employment (MME) Partnership was launched

EU Summit of Heads of

State and Government in December 2007 in

Africa Strategy and

www.gfmd.org. field is of most interest for this policy brief.

the First Action Plan (2008

adopted.

The partnership aims to ensure sustainable

development and the implementation of

relevant international agreements and

declarations, relying in particular

Tripoli Declaration on Migration and

Development (2006). A

2011-2013 was adopted at the third Africa

Summit that took place in Tripoli

November 2010. This new action plan has two

main strands: (a) enhancing dialogue, and (b)

identifying and implementing concrete

actions.

The major challenge for the period 2011

will be to further strengthen and enrich the

political and policy dialogue on

as tertiary education issues between the two

continents, whilst encompassing dialogues

and cooperation taking place on national and

regional levels.

Dialogue on all these topics will in particular

focus on the question of how to enhance

coherence and synergies between migration,

mobility, employment, education policies as

well as development and

strategies.

The second action plan identifies a series of

actions encompassing the inter

inter-continental dimension of the

partnership. A number of concrete ac

have been envisaged (see T

The initiatives of the Africa

funded by the EU, AU as well as African and

EU States.



First Action Plan (2008-2010) were

The partnership aims to ensure sustainable

development and the implementation of

relevant international agreements and

lying in particular on the

Tripoli Declaration on Migration and

(2006). A second Action Plan

2013 was adopted at the third Africa-EU

Summit that took place in Tripoli on 29-30

new action plan has two

main strands: (a) enhancing dialogue, and (b)

identifying and implementing concrete

hallenge for the period 2011-2013

will be to further strengthen and enrich the

political and policy dialogue on MME as well

as tertiary education issues between the two

continents, whilst encompassing dialogues

and cooperation taking place on national and

Dialogue on all these topics will in particular

focus on the question of how to enhance

coherence and synergies between migration,

ployment, education policies as

development and poverty reduction

action plan identifies a series of

actions encompassing the inter-regional and

continental dimension of the

partnership. A number of concrete actions

have been envisaged (see Table 1).

The initiatives of the Africa-EU Partnership are

EU, AU as well as African and




Table 1: Policy Propositions by the European Union concerning M&D

The Global Approach to Migration EU Multi Annual Strategy Paper 2011

Thematic Programme

Remittance transfers

Facilitating financial transfers of migrants to their country

of origin

Manage legal migration Promoting well

information to (potential) migrants and encouraging the

definition and implementation of legislative frameworks

for migrant workers in third countries

Support initiatives by migrant groups and

diaspora organisations to get involved in

EU policy initiatives with and about their

countries and regions of origin

Contribution of diasporas to the development of their

country of origin and increasing the value of migrants'

return;

supporting voluntary

and building capacities for migration management;

Result: Links between immigrant communities in Europe

and communities of origin are

tightened

Policy Coherence for Development of the

migration and development nexus in

close cooperation with the countries

concerned and with particular emphasis

on brain drain

Mitigating brain drain and promoting the circular

movement of migrants;

Capacities for col

flows and the capacities of

management are improved; expertise is developed

Promote access to education for all




Table 1: Policy Propositions by the European Union concerning M&D

EU Multi Annual Strategy Paper 2011-2013 –

Thematic Programme : «Migration and Asylum»

Africa-EU Partnership –

Migration, Mobility & Employment

acilitating financial transfers of migrants to their country Establishment of an African Remittances Institute

more effective and safer remittances’ transfer system

African Union, in partnership with the World Bank);

Improve the access to finance and guarantees

the microfinance sector and enhancing the

term finance

Promoting well-managed labour migration by providing

information to (potential) migrants and encouraging the

definition and implementation of legislative frameworks

for migrant workers in third countries

Facilitate the work of the national services or autonomous centres

in charge of counselling (potential

CIGEM, Mali; ANAPEC, Morocco

promotion de l’Emploi et des Compétences

ontribution of diasporas to the development of their

country of origin and increasing the value of migrants'

supporting voluntary return and reintegration of migrants

and building capacities for migration management;

Links between immigrant communities in Europe

and communities of origin are

Diaspora Outreach Initiative

the Diaspora in the development of Africa

and transfer skills, knowledge and technologies from the Diaspora

to the African continent

Existing programmes: Global

Capacity building for Diasp

network of African Diaspora organisations working in the field of

M&D – Africa-Europe Platform,

sectoral needs, such as a Diaspora Health Network

itigating brain drain and promoting the circular

movement of migrants;

Capacities for collecting and processing data on migratory

flows and the capacities of staff in charge of migration

management are improved; expertise is developed

The Observatory on Migration

and research centres;

CARIM – Euro-Mediterranean Consortium for Applied Research on

International Migration

Nyerere Programme providing scholarships to African students,

scholars and academic staff;

7

Action Plan 2011-2013: Partnership:

Employment (MME)

African Remittances Institute (ARI) (better,

more effective and safer remittances’ transfer system; leadership:

African Union, in partnership with the World Bank);

access to finance and guarantees through support of

the microfinance sector and enhancing the SMEs’ access to long

the work of the national services or autonomous centres

potential) migrants:

ANAPEC, Morocco – L’agence nationale de

promotion de l’Emploi et des Compétences

Diaspora Outreach Initiative - cooperation framework to engage

in the development of Africa and to build capacity

skills, knowledge and technologies from the Diaspora

programmes: Global/EU Mapping of Africa Diasporas,

for Diaspora ministries in Africa, EU-wide

African Diaspora organisations working in the field of

Europe Platform, Programmes addressing specific

such as a Diaspora Health Network

Observatory on Migration will create a network of researchers

nean Consortium for Applied Research on

providing scholarships to African students,

scholars and academic staff;




Address the root causes of migration,

with a special focus on employment

issues, governance and demographic

developments

Policy ownership among African

countries and support African countries

wishing to develop their own migratory

policy framework

Capacity building efforts to help countries in the

formulation of predevelopment migration policies and in

their capacity to

Promote triangular cooperation (i.e.

between the Maghreb and Sub-Saharan

African countries, with EU support)

Political dialogue and operational cooperation between

EU Member States and third

Make more use of bilateral channels as

well as regional and continental

cooperation frameworks

Coordinate EU activities with those of international

organisations

UNODC, UNDP, th

Ensure systematic and operational

follow-up of the joint migration missions

and other migration cooperation related

to the Cotonou Agreement

Mobility Partnerships (2008: Cape Verde and Moldova,

2009: Georgia), Regional Protection Programmes (RPPs),

Readmission Agreements, Migration Profiles, protection

of migrant’s human rights, unaccompanied minors, fight

against trafficking in human beings, labour migration,

support to circular migration, etc.




Pan-African University, a network of African higher education

research institutions;

mutual recognition of higher education certificates and

qualifications in Africa through

Harmonisation and Tuning

Decent Work Initiative extending social protection coverage in

particular in the informal economy;

Labour market governance and capacity building initiative:

strengthening the institutional capacity of the labour market

institutions in Africa;

organisation of a number of regional and sub

employment, labour, social protection and labour migration

apacity building efforts to help countries in the

formulation of predevelopment migration policies and in

their capacity to jointly manage migration flows

Political dialogue and operational cooperation between

EU Member States and third countries is reinforced

The Facilitation of dialogue

Coordinate EU activities with those of international

organisations and initiatives in the field; UNHCR, IOM,

UNODC, UNDP, the World Bank, ILO, ICMPD, GFMD, etc.

Mobility Partnerships (2008: Cape Verde and Moldova,

2009: Georgia), Regional Protection Programmes (RPPs),

Readmission Agreements, Migration Profiles, protection

of migrant’s human rights, unaccompanied minors, fight

against trafficking in human beings, labour migration,

support to circular migration, etc.

8

, a network of African higher education and

mutual recognition of higher education certificates and

qualifications in Africa through African Higher Education

Harmonisation and Tuning

extending social protection coverage in

particular in the informal economy;

Labour market governance and capacity building initiative:

strengthening the institutional capacity of the labour market

organisation of a number of regional and sub-regional fora on

employment, labour, social protection and labour migration

dialogue between the partners




Policy Analysis

Basically, the EU’s M&D policy embraces many

topics and goals set out in the Global

Approach to Migration. The

Programme on «Migration and Asylum

the Africa-EU Partnership Migration, Mobility

& Employment (MME) are two

implement the EU’s approach in practice.

For the policy analysis of the EU’s M&D Policy,

seven African diaspora experts have been

consulted who work in the field of M&D

organisations for which these members of the

African diaspora work are mainly active on the

national, transnational and international level.

The experts consulted are very familiar with

the EU’s M&D policy. Most work for or

cooperate with organisations

engaged with the European Union.

The experts raised several concerns

current EU M&D policy. These are

and explained below and followed by

proposed by the experts to better

the African diaspora in the EU’s M&D policy

and to improve the African diaspora’s

accessibility to the EU in terms of funds,

information, contacts, etc.. This information

collected from the interviews with the

members of the African diaspora is summed

up as policy recommendations in the next part

of this policy brief. Several points

by the experts match with the results of the

CARITAS report “A reflection on the dynamics

between migration and development” (2010).




Basically, the EU’s M&D policy embraces many

topics and goals set out in the Global

Approach to Migration. The EU Thematic

on «Migration and Asylum» and

Migration, Mobility

are two major tools to

EU’s approach in practice.

policy analysis of the EU’s M&D Policy,

African diaspora experts have been

eld of M&D. The

for which these members of the

k are mainly active on the

national, transnational and international level.

The experts consulted are very familiar with

the EU’s M&D policy. Most work for or

cooperate with organisations which are

with the European Union.

concerns about the

. These are summarised

ed below and followed by ideas

better integrate

EU’s M&D policy

improve the African diaspora’s

EU in terms of funds,

This information

collected from the interviews with the

members of the African diaspora is summed

up as policy recommendations in the next part

Several points mentioned

match with the results of the

CARITAS report “A reflection on the dynamics

between migration and development” (2010).

Migration control


It is feared that the EU M&D

in an instrumental way

from the Member States

fortress Europe. Even though the EU tries to

find ways to intervene positively, it is believed

to be still hindered by its Member States to do

so. Hence, it is argued that the current policy

is more about the regulation of migration than

about development or co


nothing to do with regulating migration flows.

In the CARITAS report it is argued also that

migration and development is limited when

the main objective is the reduction of

immigration to the EU. A win

may occur if migration is a factor of

development and if migrants are seen as an

enriching factor for a community. (CARITAS,

2010, p. 30)

A Clear separation between

migration flows and illegal migration on the

one hand and migration and development

policies on the other hand

objective of migration control should be

separated from that of development aid

(CARITAS, 2010, p. 39). D

not be related to sending back migrants and

other actions which take away people’s

liberty. It would help if

immigration as an opportunity and not as a

problem.

Respecting the interests of

the countries of origin

The objectives of the E

respond to the needs of the EU and not to the

needs of migrants’ home countries. It is

claimed by an expert that the main aim of the



Migration control vs.


EU M&D policies are used

in an instrumental way and under pressure

tates (MSs) to construct a

fortress Europe. Even though the EU tries to

find ways to intervene positively, it is believed

to be still hindered by its Member States to do

so. Hence, it is argued that the current policy

t the regulation of migration than

about development or co-development while

igration and development, in fact, has

regulating migration flows.

In the CARITAS report it is argued also that

igration and development is limited when

ain objective is the reduction of

immigration to the EU. A win-win situation

may occur if migration is a factor of

development and if migrants are seen as an

enriching factor for a community. (CARITAS,

A Clear separation between the regulation of

migration flows and illegal migration on the

one hand and migration and development

policies on the other hand is proposed. The

objective of migration control should be

separated from that of development aid

Development should

not be related to sending back migrants and

other actions which take away people’s

liberty. It would help if the EU considers

immigration as an opportunity and not as a

Respecting the interests of

the countries of origin

The objectives of the EU’s M&D policy

respond to the needs of the EU and not to the

needs of migrants’ home countries. It is

claimed by an expert that the main aim of the




EU M&D policy is to contribute to the vitality

and competitiveness of the EU.

where migration management takes into

account the interests of the countries of

destination only is the European Blue Card

(CARITAS, 2010, p. 46). The local, regional and

national authorities in Europe and in the

African countries of origin as well as non

governmental organisation which deal with

migration and development are not able to

influence EU policies on M&D enough. The

migrants and stakeholders situated in the EU

cannot fulfil the role of strong local actors

which can ensure the implementation of

development initiatives.

The authorities in Europe and in the countries

of origin as well as NGOs which have valuable

experience in this field in the South and in the

North need to be involved as well.

involvement of all is needed to achieve a

triple-win situation (Europe, Africa and

migrants) (CARITAS, 2010, p. 47). In

cooperation, policies that sustain the

movement of goods and people can be set up

to encourage growth opportunities in

emerging markets.

Acknowledgement of the African diaspora

The input of the diaspora for the development

of their countries of origin is not valued

enough in the EU. The financial means spent

on the EU’s M&D policy are sparse compared

to the private and voluntary engagement of

the migrants themselves.

A reluctance to recognize African diasporas as

emerging global and transnational

stakeholders in international development in

general and the development of the African

continent in particular can be observed.




EU M&D policy is to contribute to the vitality

and competitiveness of the EU. An example

agement takes into

account the interests of the countries of

destination only is the European Blue Card

The local, regional and

national authorities in Europe and in the

African countries of origin as well as non-

sation which deal with

migration and development are not able to

influence EU policies on M&D enough. The

migrants and stakeholders situated in the EU

cannot fulfil the role of strong local actors

which can ensure the implementation of

The authorities in Europe and in the countries

of origin as well as NGOs which have valuable

experience in this field in the South and in the

North need to be involved as well. The active

involvement of all is needed to achieve a

n (Europe, Africa and

migrants) (CARITAS, 2010, p. 47). In

cooperation, policies that sustain the

movement of goods and people can be set up

to encourage growth opportunities in

Acknowledgement of the African diaspora

The input of the diaspora for the development

of their countries of origin is not valued

enough in the EU. The financial means spent

on the EU’s M&D policy are sparse compared

to the private and voluntary engagement of

e to recognize African diasporas as

emerging global and transnational

stakeholders in international development in

general and the development of the African

continent in particular can be observed.

Next to the other stakeholders, t

should be integrated as a partner and

intermediary. It is important to not only

acknowledge the support given by the

diaspora to its countries of origin but as well

the enrichment it brings to the host countries

in particular and to international development

in general. The EU should strongly

acknowledge the contribution of migration to

the development of Europe. Furthermore,

diasporas should be recognized as

development actors and their competences

should be pointed out and valued. The

diaspora should become a stron

international development. The

migrants and diasporas in development

to be enhanced (CARITAS, 2010, p. 40).

Migrants have to be recognized as citizens,

agents of change and members of global

communities (CARITAS, 2010, p. 49).

Taking into account the

interests of the Afric

The diverse interests of the African diaspora

are not yet sufficiently represented at the

European level and need to be defended

better. One reason mentioned why the

interests of the diaspora are e

be only covered partially is that EU policies are

dominated by border politics as discussed

above (Migration control vs. M&D).

the African diaspora is represented by

different networks and organisations which do

not work together well. Therefore, the

interests of the African Diaspora are partly not

known and often not taken into account.

The migrants should be consulted thoroughly

when planning and implementing M&D

policies. It should be cooperated closely with

representatives from the

framework for dialogue and consultation



Next to the other stakeholders, the diaspora

integrated as a partner and

It is important to not only

acknowledge the support given by the

s of origin but as well

the enrichment it brings to the host countries

in particular and to international development

ral. The EU should strongly

acknowledge the contribution of migration to

the development of Europe. Furthermore,

diasporas should be recognized as

actors and their competences

should be pointed out and valued. The

diaspora should become a strong partner for

international development. The role of

migrants and diasporas in development needs

to be enhanced (CARITAS, 2010, p. 40).

Migrants have to be recognized as citizens,

agents of change and members of global

communities (CARITAS, 2010, p. 49).

Taking into account the

African diaspora

interests of the African diaspora

are not yet sufficiently represented at the

European level and need to be defended

One reason mentioned why the

interests of the diaspora are experienced to

be only covered partially is that EU policies are

dominated by border politics as discussed

above (Migration control vs. M&D). If present,

the African diaspora is represented by

different networks and organisations which do

well. Therefore, the

interests of the African Diaspora are partly not

known and often not taken into account.

The migrants should be consulted thoroughly

when planning and implementing M&D

policies. It should be cooperated closely with

the African diaspora. A

dialogue and consultation with




diaspora organisations should be created. And

the foundation of diaspora organisations and

networks of organisations should be

supported adequately in the long term. As

mentioned before, very important is the

recognition of migrant organisations as

development actors and having an active

partnership with them.

Policy Coherence for Development (PCD)

One of the aims of the EU is Policy Coherence

for Development. When it comes to M&D, this

goal is not yet achieved. According to the

CARITAS report, key criteria for Policy

Coherence for Development (PCD) are the

policy impact on living conditions and the

creation and maintaining of opportunities for

people to make their own decisions.

several sources of incoherence regarding

development mentioned is the

migration to internal security. (CARITAS, 2010,

p. 38)

In the CARITAS report, instead of a cost

benefits, a human rights based M&D policies

approach is promoted. M&D policies should

be human-rights based in order to be

coherent. (CARITAS, 2010, p. 36, 53)

To improve its M&D policy, the EU should

respect migrants’ rights and further reinforce

the coherence of its policies. The dimension

of migration should be placed in policies such

as development aid, internal affairs,

integration, employment, social affairs, and so

on.

Furthermore, the migrants’ ideas and interests

should be better integrated in the elaboration

of policies which affect them to achieve better

policy coherence.




diaspora organisations should be created. And

the foundation of diaspora organisations and

networks of organisations should be

supported adequately in the long term. As

mentioned before, very important is the

recognition of migrant organisations as

ment actors and having an active

Policy Coherence for Development (PCD)

One of the aims of the EU is Policy Coherence

for Development. When it comes to M&D, this

According to the

ia for Policy

Coherence for Development (PCD) are the

policy impact on living conditions and the

creation and maintaining of opportunities for

people to make their own decisions. One of

several sources of incoherence regarding

development mentioned is the linking of

migration to internal security. (CARITAS, 2010,

In the CARITAS report, instead of a cost-

benefits, a human rights based M&D policies

approach is promoted. M&D policies should

rights based in order to be

p. 36, 53)

policy, the EU should

respect migrants’ rights and further reinforce

the coherence of its policies. The dimension

of migration should be placed in policies such

as development aid, internal affairs,

social affairs, and so

Furthermore, the migrants’ ideas and interests

should be better integrated in the elaboration

of policies which affect them to achieve better

Complexity of the EU’s M&D policy

Since the M&D policy is rather complex, the

EU might deal with too many aims and

objectives.

As mentioned above, the EU should clearly

separate its M&D policies and its policies to

regulate migration flows. To simplify its policy,

it could reduce its aims after consu

the migrants, countries of origin and MSs

about the most important M&D policy

objectives to be achieved.

Informing and educating the African diaspora

There exists a lack of training and information

for the diaspora. The information provided so

far by the EU is used by diaspora

from time to time and sometimes reaches the

diaspora through intermediaries. But there is

not enough information corresponding to the

African diaspora’s interests and needs.

Relevant information and format

EU and its policies should be accessible for

African diaspora. Mentoring and counselling

tools should be put in place to accompa

initiatives of diaspora organisations.

In addition, migrants should be i

before and after they come to Europe about

the EU M&D policies.

Financial Support for the African diaspora

Financial support is largely lacking for diaspora

initiatives. This is particularly the case for

small diaspora organisations. Only a few

African diaspora Organisations fi

information about EU funding and are able to

understand the complex requirements to get

access to funds. Therefore, funds are hardly

used by the diapora. One existing possibility

for diaspora organisations to access EC funds



lexity of the EU’s M&D policy

D policy is rather complex, the

too many aims and

As mentioned above, the EU should clearly

separate its M&D policies and its policies to

regulate migration flows. To simplify its policy,

it could reduce its aims after consulting with

the migrants, countries of origin and MSs

about the most important M&D policy

objectives to be achieved.

Informing and educating the African diaspora

There exists a lack of training and information

for the diaspora. The information provided so

far by the EU is used by diaspora organisations

and sometimes reaches the

diaspora through intermediaries. But there is

not enough information corresponding to the

African diaspora’s interests and needs.

Relevant information and formations on the

EU and its policies should be accessible for the

Mentoring and counselling

tools should be put in place to accompany the

initiatives of diaspora organisations.

In addition, migrants should be informed

me to Europe about

Financial Support for the African diaspora

Financial support is largely lacking for diaspora

initiatives. This is particularly the case for

small diaspora organisations. Only a few

African diaspora Organisations find relevant

information about EU funding and are able to

understand the complex requirements to get

access to funds. Therefore, funds are hardly

used by the diapora. One existing possibility

for diaspora organisations to access EC funds




is as a subcontractor of a bigger, known co

development organisation.

Financial support for (small) diaspora

initiatives should be provided. Policies should

be adapted so that organisations with a small

budget have access to EU funds and tools

Supporting instruments as w

flexible financial procedures should be put in

place. These should be in coherence with the

capacities of migrant organisations. Processes

for the allocation of funds should be

simplified, e.g., all funds concerning migration

and development could be regulated by the

EDF (European Development Fund)

This analysis is not claiming to be complete

and to cover all possible points for

improvements of the EU’s M&D policy.

indication of what the African diaspora thinks

of the EU’s M&D policy approach. The

recommendations should be taken into

account when further developing and

improving the EU’s M&D policy and may

function as a contribution to future research

and consultations on the topic.

Policy Recommendations

In short, the policy recommendations

proposed to EU policymakers regarding the

EU’s M&D policy are:

- Separate the management of migration

from M&D.

- Consider migration as an opportunity rather

than a problem.

- Respect the interests of the African

countries of origin.

5

http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/developme

nt/overseas_countries_territories/r12102_en.htm




or of a bigger, known co-

Financial support for (small) diaspora

initiatives should be provided. Policies should

be adapted so that organisations with a small

ss to EU funds and tools.

Supporting instruments as well as more

flexible financial procedures should be put in

place. These should be in coherence with the

capacities of migrant organisations. Processes

for the allocation of funds should be

concerning migration

uld be regulated by the

EDF (European Development Fund)5 only.

claiming to be complete

and to cover all possible points for

improvements of the EU’s M&D policy. It is an

indication of what the African diaspora thinks

D policy approach. The

recommendations should be taken into

account when further developing and

improving the EU’s M&D policy and may

function as a contribution to future research

Policy Recommendations

policy recommendations

proposed to EU policymakers regarding the

Separate the management of migration

Consider migration as an opportunity rather

Respect the interests of the African

http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/developme

nt/overseas_countries_territories/r12102_en.htm

- When dealing with M&D policies, local,

regional and national authorities and co

development organizations on both

continents need to be involved.

- Acknowledge the diaspora’s contribution in

the home AND host countries.

- Recognize the African diaspora as a

development actor and partner for

development.

- Create a framework for dialogue and

consultation with African diaspora

organisations in order to take the diaspora’s

interests into account.

- Support the foundation of African diaspora

networks and organisatio

initiatives.

- Follow a human rights based approach

instead of a cost-benefits approach when it

comes to migration and development.

- Integrate the dimension of migration in

policy fields influenced by migration and

affecting migrants such as de

employment, etc. to increase the Policy

Coherence for Development (PCD).

- Justify, clarify and reduce the objectives of

the EU M&D policy in consultation with the

diaspora, countries of origin, MSs and other

stakeholders in order to reduce its

complexity.

- Provide relevant information and training

for the African diaspora.

- Accompany diaspora initiatives by

mentoring and counselling

- Inform migrants before and after they come

to Europe about EU M&D policy

- Provide small diaspora organisations with

access to EU funds.

- Simplify the processes in place for the

allocation of funds within the EU.



When dealing with M&D policies, local,

regional and national authorities and co-

development organizations on both

continents need to be involved.

Acknowledge the diaspora’s contribution in

the home AND host countries.

Recognize the African diaspora as a

evelopment actor and partner for

Create a framework for dialogue and

consultation with African diaspora

organisations in order to take the diaspora’s

Support the foundation of African diaspora

networks and organisations and their

Follow a human rights based approach

benefits approach when it

comes to migration and development.

Integrate the dimension of migration in

policy fields influenced by migration and

affecting migrants such as development aid,

employment, etc. to increase the Policy

Coherence for Development (PCD).

Justify, clarify and reduce the objectives of

D policy in consultation with the

diaspora, countries of origin, MSs and other

stakeholders in order to reduce its

Provide relevant information and training

for the African diaspora.

Accompany diaspora initiatives by

mentoring and counselling.

Inform migrants before and after they come

about EU M&D policy.

Provide small diaspora organisations with

Simplify the processes in place for the

allocation of funds within the EU.




Conclusion

When looking at the policy recommendations

above, it becomes clear that there exists the

need to strongly integrate the diaspora in the

framing and implementation of the EU’s M&D

Policy.

In Table 2, the objectives of the Global

Approach to Migration are connected to the

recommendations described above in order to

visualize how an increased and integrated role

of the diaspora could be useful for achieving

the aims of the Global Approach to Migration.

A strong network of the African diaspora in

Europe is one tool to increase the contrib

Table 2: Strengthening the Role of the Diaspora Policy in the EU’s M&D policy


Remittances transfers

Manage legal migration

Support initiatives by migrant groups and

diaspora organisations

Access to education

Policy Coherence for Development in





commendations

above, it becomes clear that there exists the

need to strongly integrate the diaspora in the

framing and implementation of the EU’s M&D

In Table 2, the objectives of the Global

Approach to Migration are connected to the

ns described above in order to

visualize how an increased and integrated role

of the diaspora could be useful for achieving

the aims of the Global Approach to Migration.

A strong network of the African diaspora in

Europe is one tool to increase the contribution

of the diaspora to the EU’s M&D policy and

hence, its success.

In order to use this network as an effective

tool, it needs to be open to and cooperate

successfully with other stakeholders such as

the EU itself and its Member States,

authorities and civil society organisations in

the African countries of origin as well as non

African diaspora co

organisations in Europe.

To sum it up, by increasing the role of the

diaspora, it will be possible to improve the

development and implementation

M&D policy significantly.


The Global Approach to Migration Integration of the Diaspora

- Provide small diaspora organisations with access to EU funds

- Simplify the processes in place for the allocation of funds within

the EU.

- Separate the management of migration from migration and

development.

- Consider migration as an opportunity rather than a problem.

- Follow a human rights based approach instead of a cost

approach when it comes to migration and development.

Support initiatives by migrant groups and - Acknowledge the diaspora’s contribution in the home and host

countries.

- Recognize the African diaspora as a development actor and

partner for development.

- Create a framework for dialogue and consultation with African

diaspora organisations in order to take the diaspora’s interests

into account.

- Support the foundation of African diaspora networks and

organisations and their initiatives.

- Accompany diaspora initiatives by mentoring and counselling

them.

- Provide relevant information and training for the African

diaspora.

- Inform migrants before and after they come to Europe

M&D policy.

Policy Coherence for Development in


- Integrate the dimension of migration in policy fields influenced

by migration and affecting migrants such as development aid,



of the diaspora to the EU’s M&D policy and

In order to use this network as an effective

tool, it needs to be open to and cooperate

successfully with other stakeholders such as

the EU itself and its Member States,

civil society organisations in

the African countries of origin as well as non-

African diaspora co-development

To sum it up, by increasing the role of the

diaspora, it will be possible to improve the

development and implementation of the EU’s


with access to EU funds.

Simplify the processes in place for the allocation of funds within

Separate the management of migration from migration and

Consider migration as an opportunity rather than a problem.

Follow a human rights based approach instead of a cost-benefits

approach when it comes to migration and development.

wledge the diaspora’s contribution in the home and host

Recognize the African diaspora as a development actor and

Create a framework for dialogue and consultation with African

the diaspora’s interests

Support the foundation of African diaspora networks and

Accompany diaspora initiatives by mentoring and counselling

for the African

Inform migrants before and after they come to Europe about EU

Integrate the dimension of migration in policy fields influenced

by migration and affecting migrants such as development aid,




concerned

Policy ownership among African

countries & support the development of

their own migratory policy framework

Promote triangular cooperation

Make use of bilateral channels & regional

and continental cooperation frameworks

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