Evaluating the Securitized Migration Policy of the European Union in the Context of Border Security

Year 2024, , 35 - 56, 29.01.2024

Çılga Altunbaş , Fulya Memisoglu

https://doi.org/10.47478/lectio.1412017

Abstract

The securitization theory, formulated by the Copenhagen School, has become one of the most widely used approaches to explain the relationship between migration and security. This study focuses on the reflections of the European Union’s (EU) securitized migration policy on the influence of border policies within the framework of securitization theory. In other words, the securitization of migration in the EU has been examined in terms of rising walls and technological developments at the borders of the member states. During the surge in migration flows to the EU, the evolution of border security in countries has been scrutinized. As a result of research, similar practices in border security have been identified in member states. In this study, firstly, it has been revealed that the EU has laid the groundwork for the development of security-focused policies in border security by providing financial and technical assistance, as well as offering training and equipment support to member states. Secondly, the study emphasizes the EU’s ability to devise border security strategies that are both productive and enduring. Furthermore, it raises critical questions about the implementation of extraordinary measures under the guise of security and the consequences of securitization on border policies.

Keywords

securitisation, border security, European Union, migration policy, Copenhagen School

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