The new paper “Routes in flux: is EU migration policy working?” by our partner Mixed Migration Centre provides an up to date analysis of migration dynamics in Europe against the backdrop of recent policy developments. It examines how arrival numbers and migration routes have evolved in recent years and to what extent European measures have shaped these trends. The report outlines key findings on emerging patterns, governance instruments, and structural challenges, offering an evidence based for assessing the effectiveness of EU migration policy.

The report “Digital Identity and Migration” analyses how emerging digital identity systems affect migrants, refugees, and other marginalized groups. It shows that new technologies such as digital wallets can improve access to essential services but also risk reinforcing existing forms of exclusions when safeguards and inclusive design are lacking. Drawing on case studies and fieldwork in Kenya and Germany, the report highlights gaps between policy ambitions and practical realities and provides evidence based insights for designing more accessible, rights focused identity systems.

In wake of the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Europe welcomed over six million displaced people. The initial response was built under pressure. Two years on, the questions changed. What helps people move from arrival to work, school, and stable routines? What breaks down when emergency measures meet long-term needs? What can countries learn from each other when systems, labour markets, and languages differ?

Based on roundtables and discussions involving academics, policymakers, and the business community with active participation from Ukrainian displaced people, this briefing analyses the responses across 12 countries, and points out factors for more sustainable support.

The report from the Mixed Migration Centre analyses how smuggling works – what contributes to a demand in smuggling and what may be effective in addressing it. It brings together evidence from over 80,000 interviews with people on the move along key mixed migration routes worldwide and more than 450 interviews with smugglers in Africa. The researchers find that current policies aimed at curbing smuggling may in fact be contributing to irregular movement and offers key recommendations on how to do better. 

Rising sea levels, escalating extreme weather events, and other climate-related hazards are increasingly rendering homes uninhabitable and heightening uncertainty for millions – particularly for those least responsible for global warming. The contributions in the 76th issue of the Forced Migration Review highlight the need for responses to climate-related displacement that are forward-looking, rights-based and centered on the protection and agency of affected populations. Authors from five continents offer diverse analytical perspectives, providing a broad set of insights intended to challenge assumptions, stimulate debate, and encourage new lines of inquiry.

As the humanitarian system is at a breaking point, refugee-led organisations continue to be largely excluded form international funding streams – despite often working faster, closer to communities and with greater impact than many established actors. The report examines why the humanitarian system is reaching its limits and outlines the reforms needed to enable genuine participation and a fairer distribution of resources.