Migration discourses and enforced return policies. Perspectives from the Global South and diaspora communities

This working paper, part of the Horizon Europe FAiR research project, delves into the multifaceted migration discourses and enforced return policies from the perspectives of the Global South and their diaspora communities in Europe. It seeks to address the predominant Eurocentric narrative and brings to light the often-overlooked viewpoints and experiences from countries such as Nigeria, Georgia, Türkiye, and Iraq, as well as their respective diaspora communities in Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. The research methodology combines in-depth analysis of media texts, and semi-structured interviews, providing a robust framework for understanding the diverse migration experiences. Migration discourses in the Global North typically emphasize themes such as security, economic impacts, and cultural assimilation. These narratives, heavily influenced by Global North interests, often overshadow the humanitarian, developmental, and historical dimensions of migration originating from the Global South. The research underscores the importance of integrating these Southern perspectives to foster a comprehensive understanding of global migration dynamics and to develop more effective, humane, and equitable migration policies. The study highlights how migration patterns and compliance with immigration policies are significantly shaped by the legitimacy perceived by migrants and other relevant actors (e.g. source country authorities), which salient migration discourses co-determine. This understanding is crucial for explaining the persistence of irregular migration and the challenges in promoting enforced return policies. By focusing on migration discourses in selected Global South countries and among their diaspora, the research provides insights into the complex interplay of historical, socio-economic, and political factors that drive migration and influence perceptions of return policies. This paper serves as a foundational step towards integrating Global South perspectives into mainstream migration discourse, ultimately aiming to promote more balanced and fair migration policies globally. Key findings reveal that different diaspora and Global South discourses exist on (irregular) migration and enforced return. These include humanitarian discourses, migration and development discourses, post-colonial discourses, securitization discourses, and civic discourses. Global South are deeply embedded in local contexts, often viewing migration as a necessity driven by poverty, conflict, and lack of opportunities. These narratives contrast to some extent with those in the diaspora, where a blend of host country and home country perspectives creates unique hybrid narratives. Various discourses identified also do not seem to differ fundamentally from dominant Global North discourses, highlighting the hegemonial nature of dominant discourses. However, in the Global South countries and diaspora communities selected, securitization discourses seem less salient than in the Global North and internationally, while migration and development and, less so, post-colonial discourses are arguably more central. The study also explores the roles of social media and traditional media in shaping and disseminating these discourses, offering a nuanced understanding of the strategies migrants use to resist and navigate enforced return policies. The findings contribute to a more inclusive migration policy framework that recognizes and respects the rights and dignity of all migrants, while also addressing perceived security concerns and economic benefits associated with migration