Securitization of African Migrants in Europe and North America

The securitization of African migrants in Europe and North America refers to the framing of immigrants as an existential security threat rather than a socioeconomic or humanitarian concerns. This discourse driven by political rhetoric, media narratives, and policy measures, often depict African migrants as risks to national security, cultural identity, and economic stability. Governments in host countries employ stringent border controls, detention and deportation policies often justified by counterterrorism and crime prevention frameworks. However, critics argue that securitization exacerbates xenophobia, violates human rights, and fails to address root causes of migration, such as conflict, poverty, and climate change. This paper examines the mechanisms of securitization, its implications for African migrants, and alternative approaches that prioritize human security and equitable migration governance. By analyzing policy trends and media representations, the study highlights the need for decoupling migration from security paradigms to foster inclusive and rights-based solutions.