Immigrants Ante Portas and Desirability of People on the Move: Selective Perceptions of Forced Displacement and Voluntary Migration from Africa, Asia, and Eastern Europe
Year: 2024
Type: book-chapter
Abstract: This analysis discusses migration from Africa, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe to the EU.It dispels myths about African migration, noting that most Africans migrate within Africa and not to Europe.African migrants are mainly young, educated, and equally gendered, and many seek better job opportunities.The majority of them use regular channels, contrary to the popular notion of a mass influx of irregular migrants.The chapter also explores the migration crisis in the Middle East, particularly Syria and Afghanistan, which are mainly due to armed conflicts and human rights violations.These conflicts have resulted in millions of registered refugees worldwide, with a significant number reaching the EU.The recent Russian invasion of Ukraine caused rapid displacement, with Europe showing collective solidarity despite criticisms of double standards in refugee treatment.Finally, the analysis covers migration from Eastern Europe, mainly Ukraine, to the EU.This migration has always been directed towards the West due to better economic prospects and political escape.The number of Ukrainians with valid EU residence permits has doubled from 2013 to 2021.The recent full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia triggered a massive wave of refugees to Western countries, mainly Poland, which has shown exceptional support for these refugees, including financial help and societal integration.The research is based on analysis of official data and reports issued by the United Nations and the European Union institutions, complemented with existing literature on the subject to provide context, background, and additional perspectives.
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
OpenAlex ID: W4408303333