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This report examines the EU's response to irregular migration and the role played by its return strategy.

Irregular migration presents a significant public and policy concern across the EU.

We are currently working on forthcoming case studies on the experiences of irregular migrants returning to Morocco and Nigeria from Europe. Based on in-depth qualitative interviews involving over 100 returnees in both countries, we will be investigating how we could ensure more effective policy responses to the return and reintegration of these migrants. In advance of this in-depth IPPR research, we are publishing two short briefings.

Returning irregular migrants: How effective is the EU's response?looks at the use of more cost-effective voluntary return programmes as an alternative to forced removal and also at encouraging cooperation between EU countries and the countries of return, including transit.

The ultimate goal is to seek an efficient and sustainable approach to returning irregular migrants to their home countries.