This book covers the issue of global migration flows, with a particular focus on irregular migration. It presents and evaluates the principal drivers of migration as well as recent policies implemented to handle these flows in East and South Asia, the European Union and the United States.Crucially, the chapters explore how different actors interact in using or promoting migratory flows from a humanitarian, political, criminal and security point of view, thereby highlighting the central role played by migrant-smuggling mafias. The book draws attention to the fundamental role of such mafias, their growing transformation and transnationalism, and the inadequate response and adaptation of state policies and police forces. It also highlights the increasing use of migration by various states in their policies of influence, if not aggression, towards third countries, in the absence of a clear deterrent response. Looking to the future, the book highlights the growing importance of the complex issue of environmentally-induced migration.