Addressing the Complexity of Regional Migration Regimes through a Mixed Migration Approach

Abstract

In comparison with other trans-boundary issues, the management of migration at an international level remains relatively week, with very few forums established at the international level to deal with the movements of people. Instead, efforts towards the better “governance” of the migration and displacement phenomenon have largely shifted toward the regional level, as reflected in the number of forums and processes dealing with migration-related issues. Ironically, the largely incoherent proliferation of regional migration-related institutions and initiatives may have had the side effect of undermining the pursuit of increased cooperation in the field of migration. A focus on clearly identified migratory routes and the adoption of a so-called mixed migration approach could contribute to resolving the complexity of regional migration governance.

Keywords: Mixed Migration; Asia-Pacific; Governance; Regime Complex; Regionalization