THE EUROPEAN UNION’S REGIONAL APPROACH TO COMBATING ILLEGAL MIGRATION

Abstract

This article examines the European Union’s regional approach to combating illegal migration in the context of increasing cross-border mobility, security challenges, and humanitarian concerns. The main objective of the study is to analyze how the European Union designs and implements cooperative mechanisms with its member states and neighboring regions in order to prevent, manage, and reduce irregular migration flows. The research applies qualitative and comparative legal methods, including the analysis of EU migration policies, international legal instruments, regional agreements, and institutional practices such as Frontex operations and cooperation with third countries. The article identifies several key problems, including the unequal distribution of responsibilities among EU member states, insufficient coordination with countries of origin and transit, persistent human rights risks for migrants, and the limited effectiveness of return and readmission mechanisms. These challenges undermine the overall capacity of the EU to respond to illegal migration in a coherent and sustainable manner. Based on the findings, the study proposes a set of legal and policy recommendations, such as strengthening regional cooperation frameworks, improving information exchange and border management systems, expanding legal migration channels, and ensuring stronger protection of migrants’ rights. The results of this research contribute to a better understanding of EU migration governance and offer practical guidance for enhancing regional security and migration management.