What does research actually say about anti-migration measures?

The German elections on 23 February were yet another in which anti-migration rhetoric dominated. Spurred on by the rise of the populist radical right, demanding drastic measures like border controls have become the norm for European centre parties. However, research shows that closing borders does very little to curb migration. In fact, it can even increase it.

Politicians often blame open borders for losing control over migration. It is no coincidence that they take aim at Schengen, the agreement that famously established open borders in Europe, to get a grip on migration. As Europe celebrates 40 years of Schengen, there are more internal border controls than ever.

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