Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64919
Title: Irregular migration in small member states : Malta and Cyprus
Authors: Darmanin, Darren
Keywords: Malta -- Emigration and immigration
Cyprus -- Emigration and immigration
Immigrants -- Malta
Immigrants -- Cyprus
European Union countries -- Emigration and immigration -- Government policy
Issue Date: 2020
Citation: Darmanin, D. (2020). Irregular migration in small member states: Malta and Cyprus (Bachelor's dissertation).
Abstract: In the past 15 years, a huge number of irregular migrants crossed the Mediterranean Sea and reached European territories. Irregular Migrants arriving in the southern island of Malta were from North Africa and irregular migrants arriving in Cyprus were coming from the Middle East through Turkey. The influx of irregular migrants in Malta and Cyprus increased throughout the years and therefore, both countries have continuously pressured the EU for concrete actions towards this issue. Moreover, Malta and Cyprus pressured the EU to promote the concept of burden-sharing amongst all Member States, as both islands were facing a high discrepancy in the distribution of irregular migrants. The aim of this dissertation is to closely analyse the approaches taken by Malta and Cyprus within the European Parliament towards the issue of irregular migration. Thus, this study will focus on the lobbying from Maltese and Cypriot MEPs towards the issue of irregular migration. This study consists of a mixed-method approach, mainly consisting of qualitative research which focuses on primary and secondary sources. Moreover, to answer the research question effectively, this study consists of quantitative research including statistical data. The main findings of this study suggest that, as Member States were divided on their approaches towards burden-sharing, Malta and Cyprus questioned the EU’s action in tackling this issue to support those vulnerable Member States. However, the EU relied on providing financial support through European Funds to its Member States rather than finding a common consensus on the concepts of burden-sharing and fair responsibility amongst its Member States. Thus, all European Member States should be bound by the principle of solidarity and support Member States that are facing unequal distribution of irregular migrants.
Description: B.EUR.STUD.(HONS)
URI: https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/64919
Appears in Collections:Dissertations - InsEUS - 2020

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