The question of asylum and illegal migration in European Union-Turkish relations

Article abstract:

In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, the question of illegal migration and asylum has re-emerged at the top of the agenda of many European Union member countries. Hearing of the capture of a boat or a container full of illegal immigrants in Europe is almost a daily incident. There are also frequent stories in the international media referring to Turkey as a country at the centre of illegal movements of people. Turkey finds itself located between regions of emigration and immigration. During the last few years, Turkey has become a country of transit for illegal migration as well as a country of destination, as some of these migrants choose to stay on in Turkey or become stranded. This article surveys Turkish government practice in the area of illegal migration and asylum and examines how the European Union policies impact and shape change in Turkish policy.