migration externalization in comparative perspective: governance practices between the u.s.–mexico and eu–morocco borders

The project analyzes migration externalization practices by comparing two major border contexts: U.S.–Mexico and EU/Spain–Morocco. It examines how the United States and the EU delegate or enforce migration control beyond their own borders by pressuring or cooperating with transit countries—Mexico and Morocco—to stop migrant flows.
Through qualitative fieldwork and interviews with experts, authorities, NGOs, and migrants themselves, the study explores: a) The mechanisms used by both countries to externalize border control; b) Similarities and differences between the U.S. and Spanish approaches; c) How these policies are implemented locally and how they affect interactions between national authorities and local actors; and d) The impact on migrant safety, human rights protection, and vulnerability during their journey. By comparing these two cases, the project seeks to understand whether externalization follows common global patterns or is shaped primarily by local and national political dynamics.