The main objective of this book is to present the on-going process of European integration via a comprehensive analysis of the institutional dynamics of, and politics linked with, the emerging migration law and policy of the European Union. More specifically, it presents the historical evolution, the main institutional legislative and policy steps, the position of, and interactions among, the different actors, and the factors impeding the formation of a common policy at EU level. On this basis a critical analysis is provided of the main institutional problems, the current policy framework, the overarching rationale as well as of the content and quality of the nascent EU migration law.
The book is divided into three parts. The first two parts provide a comprehensive study of the institutional framework and the substantive EC/EU law respectively. The third and final part provides a more general analysis of the policy-making process. Since the major achievements in the field of migration are recent, the book focuses to a great extent on the post-Amsterdam era. However, for reasons of coherence and in order to better evaluate recent developments, a concise overview of the origins of this policy is provided. Moreover, special emphasis is placed on the Schengen acquis, since its mark on European affairs has been and remains pronounced. Overall the attempt has been to provide an account, which is up to date with extensive historical references and combines both an academic and practical perspective to the legal and political issues involved. The approach based on the above elements will contribute to a new understanding of the main aspects of EU migration law and its policy ramifications and will be of use to both academics and practitioners alike.