Deterrence at any cost? Belgian return and readmission policies and the erosion of migrants’ rights

The article critically analyses the Return and Readmission policies implemented in Belgium between 2005 and 2025, relying on qualitative and quantitative data and policy implementation analysis. Through an examination of the political and legislative levels, the study reveals the gradual implementation of an integrated “non-welcome” policy, culminating in return policies. This builds on the proliferation of readmission agreements and deterrence campaigns carried out in countries of origin. Second, we examine the institutional level, paying attention to how responsibilities for implementing migration policies have evolved. We demonstrate that the roles of those responsible for organizing reception and return are becoming increasingly blurred. Reception services are incorporating aspects of return organization, while agents usually dedicated to returns are present in reception centers. The article concludes with a paradox, namely that return policies have a very limited effect on the actual number of returns, but a devastating impact on respect for human rights.