In recent years, the European Union (EU) and its member states have increasingly prioritized restricting the movement of refugees and migrants, both toward and within the EU, at the expense of their rights. This shift is reflected in agreements with third countries, such as Libya, Türkiye, and more recently Albania, Egypt, and Tunisia, aimed at halting refugee movements. It is also evident in widespread reports of irregular forced returns (pushbacks) and a persistent lack of political will within the EU to fairly share responsibility for refugee protection. The European Pact on Migration and Asylum, agreed upon in December 2023, further reinforces these trends by externalizing asylum responsibilities and imposing stricter regulations on movement within the EU, disproportionately impacting border states.

This study seeks to assess the implications of these policy shifts through the lived experiences of refugees, emphasizing the reasons behind their movements and the choices they make. It is structured around key themes, including the motivations for leaving home countries, the conditions of transit, and the factors driving onward movement within the EU. While this research does not claim to offer a comprehensive or representative account, it provides initial insights into the effectiveness of current EU migration policies. By centering refugee voices, this study aims to contribute to a broader discussion on sustainable and rights-based policy solutions, urging EU policymakers to consider the realities faced by those affected.

Read the full briefing here