Migration between Africa and Europe is shaped by a complex web of individual decisions, structural factors, policies, technological change and geopolitics. Amid global power dynamics, polarised political and public debates, and Africa and Europe’s efforts to recalibrate its partnerships, migration governance is at the core of Africa-Europe cooperation. Yet, divergent policy frameworks, narratives and understandings between African and European policymakers often complicate collaboration.  

In response to ongoing migration pressures, the EU has intensified its engagement beyond its borders, seeking to build stronger alliances with African countries and trial new approaches to managing irregular migration. This has led to new legislative initiatives, a growing interest in external processing of asylum claims and returns as well as stronger efforts to disrupt smuggling networks, disincentivise irregular migration and influence migration decisions.  

In African countries, the focus is on labour migration, expanding opportunities for regular mobility and safe pathways both within the continent and internationally. At the same time, concerns about irregular migration and becoming transit or destination countries reflect the diversity of priorities across the region.

Despite growing political attention, critical questions remain: How do people decide whether to migrate, where to go and how to do so – or whether to stay? Do policymakers adequately consider migrants’ preferences, aspirations and behaviour? And do migration-related policies meaningfully influence those decisions? 

The DYNAMIG policy and research conference puts migration decision-making at the centre of the conversation. Drawing on key findings from the Horizon Europe-funded DYNAMIG project – a three-year research effort into the interaction between policy frameworks and individual choices – the conference explores these questions within the broader context of Africa-Europe relations. 

Through interactive formats and thought-provoking discussions, we will delve into:

• how people decide whether and how to migrate;
• to what extent the diverse experiences of migrants are considered when policies are made;
• how policies and governance frameworks – including on development aid and labour migration – influence behaviour, to inform and improve their effectiveness.

Conference programme

For more information and the full programme, please visit the DYNAMIG event page.