About MMC’s work in Europe
MMC engages in data collection, research, analysis and policy development on mixed migration to and within Europe.
Our primary objectives are to bridge the knowledge gap, guide programming that enhances migrant protection, and support policy-making that upholds the rights and safety of people on the move.
MMC’s flagship data collection project with people on the move, 4Mi, has been operational in Europe since 2019. In 2024, data collection is ongoing in Italy, Greece, Spain, Belgium and France, surveying people who have travelled along mixed migration routes to Europe. In addition to 4Mi, MMC Europe undertakes various research initiatives.
Ongoing MMC Europe initiatives include: Understanding discrimination in access to housing for migrants in Italy, Greece, and Malta; exploring vulnerabilities to trafficking among people displaced from Ukraine in Bern, Berlin and Warsaw; exploring return’s perceptions and intentions among undocumented migrants in France and Belgium, with particular focus on Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) options ; exploring the impact of irregularity on access to services and employment for migrant workers in Italy, Greece, and Spain; understanding decision-making processes during migration journeys in Europe and the role of public policy.
Mixed Migration in Europe
Migration to and within Europe is marked by significant diversity, involving refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, and others driven by a complex mix of conflict, insecurity and economic factors. Journeys are perilous and involve significant challenges along the way, heavily influenced by shifting policies, border controls, and the broader European response to migration. European governments are increasingly adopting restrictive migration policies that undermine their ability to safeguard refugees’ and migrants’ rights and provide essential services. This hardline stance further complicates efforts to enhance support systems and create meaningful pathways for entry, residence, and integration.
Mixed migration to Europe follows several key routes: the Eastern Mediterranean Route from Turkey to Greece, the Central Mediterranean Route from North Africa to Italy, and the Western Mediterranean Route from North Africa to Spain. Additionally, the Atlantic Route, which involves crossing from West Africa to the Canary Islands, has seen a resurgence in recent years.
The Western Balkan Route serves as both an entry and transit corridor, with migrants traveling through Southeast Europe towards Western Europe, Within Europe, the English Channel, for example, has become a prominent route for those attempting to cross from France to the UK. Further, the displacement crisis triggered by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has resulted in millions of people fleeing to neighboring countries and beyond, marking one of the largest movements of people within Europe in recent history.
In recent years, another notable development has been the movement of migrants through Belarus to Poland and other EU countries, as well as through Russia to neighboring states. These routes have introduced new challenges to migration management in Europe, adding complexity to the existing migration landscape
Our funding partners
MMC’s work in Europe is made possible through the generous support and close cooperation with various partners.
