Aid and migration: European union’s externalization for migration control strategy through its emergency trust fund for Africa

Abstract

This paper discusses the Valetta European Trust Fund (EUTF) for Africa as one of the European Union (EU) externalization migration control strategies. By using a case study approach and thematic analysis, this paper analyses the execution of this strategy, the ongoing projects under it and, ultimately, it analyses how Europe’s defensive posturing and extra-territorialisation will reshape its relationship with Africa and Africa’s stability in general. The findings unveiled the authenticity of the criticisms directed towards the initiative including the EU’s hastiness prompted by its quick-fix mentality, the political agenda revolving the EUTF projects and programmes which are against the norms of official development aid mechanisms as well as lack of Africa’s ownership of such projects. Despite the immediate benefits likely to be reaped by African countries from the EU’s financial support, this paper recommends that long term consequences of the initiative should be analysed imperatively to avoid further devastation to these struggling nations.