Smugglers: who are they really?

This interactive discussion explores the complex realities of migrant smuggling. Beginning with an introduction to international and European migration law, the session examines the different forms and dynamics of smuggling through real examples and journalistic testimonies. Participants will then engage in a dialogue to reflect on the legal, social, and human dimensions of the topic before sharing insights with the wider audience.

The act of smuggling is publicly recognised as an illegal service for the ‘irregular’ nature of the border crossing and consequently is legally prosecutable. However, it is also the only form of hope for many people who would like to migrate, but do not have the means to do it ‘regularly’. They, therefore, in a sense, satisfy a request that exists independently of them.

But do we really know who smugglers are and what they actually do?

The discussion will begin with insights into international and European migration law, followed by different examples of the multifaceted activity of smuggling and it will be combined with testimonies from journalists who investigated the topic directly. 

You will then have the opportunity to debate different aspects of this complex topic in small groups, before sharing your final thoughts with the rest of the audience.

Register here!