The complexity and diversity of immigration into Southern Europe are examined, within the limits of available data, along with the estimated illegal immigrant presence and participation in the formal economy. Illegal migration and illegal residence appear as norms, although obscured by multiple legalisation efforts by Southern European states. Three main routes of migration into the Mediterranean Basin are identified, with a recent increase in the use of smugglers and traffickers and very low asylum applications as well as recognition rates. Immigrant integration is posited as a dichotomy between economic role and social marginalisation-both largely determined by the illegal or semi-legal status of the immigrants. Three subtopics are briefly examined: the criminality of immigrants, immigrant population densities and access to healthcare services. Finally, a comparative overview of government policy responses is presented, concluding with identification of broad policy failures. Some policy priorities for the future are suggested.

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immigration policy Europe illegal immigrant asylum seeker immigration