Topics

Why we’re working on this

The Common European Asylum System (CEAS) is a framework established by the European Union (EU) to harmonize asylum policies and procedures across Member States. Its primary goal is to ensure that individuals fleeing persecution or serious harm receive adequate protection and fair treatment within the EU.

The CEAS comprises several key components, including the Dublin Regulation, which determines the Member State responsible for examining an asylum application, and the Qualification Directive, which sets out the criteria for granting refugee status and subsidiary protection.

Despite these legal frameworks, the CEAS has been criticized for its lack of effectiveness and consistency, particularly regarding responsibility sharing and solidarity among Member States.

How we’re responding 

The Collaboratory is working to address these implementation challenges.  We’re creating sounding board circles as a platform for mutual learning and exchange of perspectives among stakeholders. We prioritise the topics that stakeholders define and focus on finding innovative approaches to implementing CEAS legislation, such as improving reception conditions for asylum seekers.

Why we’re working on this

Large-scale displacement driven by conflict, persecution, and environmental factors presents significant challenges for cities worldwide. Responding effectively requires innovative approaches and collaboration between various stakeholders. However, currently, there aren’t mechanisms or systemic ways for cities to learn from each other. This leads to fragmented responses and missed opportunities for effective policy development and implementation

How we’re responding 

In light of these challenges, the Collaboratory is setting up intentional structures of mutual learning in local responses to large-scale displacement. We’re working with city administrations, NGOs, diaspora organizations, businesses, and international agencies in Warsaw, Antalya, and Munich to help build social cohesion and economic stability.

We set up structured discussions where participants from various backgrounds come together to share their perspectives and engage in dialogue on a range of issues including crisis management, policy development, support mechanisms, and integration measures.  We also run surveys and polls to capture the opinions and preferences of migrants and city residents.

Why we’re working on this

When migrants are able to start their own businesses and work independently, it contributes to economic growth, fosters entrepreneurship, and facilitates integration. But there can be both practical and policy challenges that limit migrant-self employment—including navigating legal and administrative hurdles and accessing financial resources.

In cities like Munich, there is a growing recognition of the potential of migrant entrepreneurship to contribute to economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural diversity. However, critical gaps exist in the current framework supporting migrant self-employment, hindering the realization of its full potential.

How we’re responding 

The Collaboratory is working with the city of Munich—who like many cities, recognises the potential of migrant entrepreneurship—to identify how to best foster and support migrant self-employment. We’re conducting needs assessments and roundtables with stakeholders to identify gaps and recommendations to create a framework that supports migrant self-employment. We’re then working to implement that framework in the city and then share it with others.

Why we’re working on this

The dynamics of interactions between researchers and national governments are pivotal in moulding the landscape of EU migration governance. Yet, navigating and actively participating in the intergovernmental consultation poses significant challenges. These challenges stem from complexities inherent in governmental processes, ranging from bureaucratic hurdles to differing agendas and priorities among participating nations. Additionally, ensuring meaningful engagement requires adept negotiation skills and a nuanced understanding of the diverse interests and perspectives at play within the intergovernmental arena.

How we’re responding 

The Collaboratory helps to bridge this gap by facilitating an exchange of experiences and views among experts and practitioners at the state level involved in migration issues.

We use the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD)’s Annual Policy Initiative as our starting framework to identify issues, problems, and propose solutions.

Why we’re working on this

The European Union and its member states have increasingly intensified their focus on migration and mobility in African countries. There has also been an increase in research on this subject. However, both policy initiatives and research have overlooked the gendered dimensions of migration, mobility, and forced displacement in the East and the Horn of Africa, as well as West Africa.

How we’re responding 

The Collaboratory is working to bridge this gap by bringing together policymakers and researchers to jointly increase understanding and attention on the role that gender plays in migration in regions of Africa. We hold convenings with stakeholders, conduct focus groups, and then work to synthesise knowledge to different groups.

Why we’re working on this

The Balkan Route has been a critical path for many years for migrants, including many children, seeking refuge and opportunities in Western and Northern Europe. It’s often used as an alternative to the sea journey across the Mediterranean. However, there are number of significant challenges to ensuring that children are protected from exploitation, abuse, and trafficking as they travel through the Balkan Route..

How we’re responding 

The Collaboratory works to improve child protection policies along parts of the Balkan Route in Greece, Italy, and Serbia. We work to improve existing regulations and centre discussions on the needs and agency of children, removing it from politicised migration conversation. We work with practitioners on the ground to understand where there are gaps in existing policies and then work with policymakers to address those gaps. We specifically look at policies related to access to education, guardianship, accommodation, and age assessments.