**PROGRAMME REGIONAL SAHEL**
POLICY BRIEF
BEATRIZ MESA
Policy Brief: Migration Dynamics in the Maghreb-Sahel Region: Evolution, Emerging Challenges, and Regional Responses
Introduction
The migration dynamics in the Maghreb and Sahel regions have shifted significantly, transforming Morocco and Tunisia—historically emigration countries—into key transit and destination territories for migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, involuntary migrations in the context of multiple conflicts in the Sahel have reopened the Atlantic route. Mali and Sudan are the main drivers of the recent surge in mobility. Various wars—territorial, nationalist, ethnic, and jihadist—are increasingly forcing thousands of people into displacement, turning them into refugees within the African continent or future clandestine migrants.
The political crisis between the countries of the central Sahel and France, which affects the whole of Europe, has also had an impact on migration control previously managed by these southern countries. In 2023, following a series of coups in the region, Niger's new military government revoked the ban on transit migration from Agadez to Libya, which had been in place since 2015 under pressure from the European Union[1].
The lifting of the transit migration ban in Agadez has revived the transit route between Niger and Libya. However, with the strengthening of the Libyan coast guard by the European Union, fewer migrants have reached Italy by boat from Libya. As a result, the Western Atlantic route, linking Mauritania and Senegal to the Canary Islands, has become more heavily trafficked. In 2024, the arrival of boats on Spanish shores increased by 524.4%, according to data from the Ministry of the Interior, and in the Canary Islands alone, the increase was staggering: 1,184%
This document analyzes, on one hand, how these countries address migration through complex and sometimes ambiguous policies, the influence of international frameworks, and the growing pressure from the European Union (EU) to curb migration flows northward.
On the other hand, it sheds light on mobility in the Sahel, a region experiencing high levels of instability due to armed conflicts, insurgencies, and a surge in extremist group activities.
These factors generate migratory pressure both internally and across borders, as people seek refuge and better opportunities elsewhere. This situation has made the region a focal point of international interest, with development and security initiatives aimed at addressing the complex, interrelated challenges of migration, poverty, and violence in the Sahel.
Context of Migration in Morocco and Tunisia
Morocco: Regional Origins and Demographic Shifts
Morocco, historically a country of emigration, now faces the dual challenges of being both a transit and destination country. Although public discourse often associates immigration with Sub-Saharan Africa, the reality is more diverse. According to the latest official data from the 2014 General Population and Housing Census (RGPH), 41.6% of foreigners in Morocco are African (64.5% from Sub-Saharan Africa and 31.9% from the Maghreb), while 40% are European. This shift reflects Morocco’s recent emphasis on its African identity, as demonstrated by its return to the African Union in 2017 and its leadership in adopting the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration in 2018. However, stigmas persist, equating "African" with "Sub-Saharan" and "foreign."
Tunisia: Transit Strategies and Border Control Pressures
Due to its geographical position, Tunisia has become a critical transit country for migrants aiming to reach Europe. Without a well-structured national migration framework, Tunisia relies heavily on bilateral agreements with the EU and assistance from international organizations and NGOs to manage migration flows. The lack of a comprehensive immigration law, coupled with political instability, has limited Tunisia’s ability to develop sustainable policies that respect migrant rights.
Context of Migration in Morocco and Tunisia
Migration governance, as defined by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is a "set of legal norms, laws, policies, and institutions that determine and regulate how states address migration in all its forms, ensuring international cooperation and the protection of migrants' rights." However, this concept lacks a single or formal definition, creating ambiguities in its application.
Morocco: Restrictive Policies and Legal Ambiguities[2]
Morocco enacted Law n°02-03 in 2003, which regulates the entry, stay, and exit of migrants in a context of heightened pressure to control irregular migration. This law includes provisions that assess "migration risk" as a criterion for admission, making it difficult for migrants to access residence permits and resulting in precarious situations for many.
In fact, most Sub-Saharan migrants in Morocco work irregularly. Not being recognized by the Moroccan Social Security system significantly hinders their integration process in the country. Additionally, a work contract is a fundamental requirement for applying for residency. Its absence not only economically marginalizes migrants but also places them in a highly vulnerable situation, exposed to the risk of detention and expulsion (according to various interviews conducted).
In a study conducted by the author in October 2024 as part of her research at the International University of Rabat, one hundred migrants were surveyed, of which more than 50% stated they did not have proper documentation. Most of these migrants work informally in sectors such as domestic service, gardening, construction, transportation, and goods loading, as well as other activities in public spaces and primary sectors.
Integration not only involves the social relationships that have been established between Moroccan society and the Sub-Saharan migrant community as a result of regularization processes. It also depends on the public policies that the Moroccan state implements to ensure effective integration. Beyond granting residency documents, these policies should facilitate migrants' acces to basic rights and decent job opportunities.
The right to residency requires a work contract, which implies that the Moroccan population must take responsibility for hiring and providing legal coverage to migrant workers. However, this mechanism requires rigorous state oversight to ensure labor guarantees are respected and to prevent abuses or exploitation. In this regard, the priority should be not only to regularize the situation of migrants but also to strengthen labor inspection and protection measures, ensuring a framework of real and sustainable inclusion.
The lack of full implementation of certain international provisions, such as the 1951 Geneva Convention on Refugee Status, further complicates and jeopardizes the situation for migrants in the country.
Tunisia: Reliance on International Cooperation
In Tunisia, the absence of a formal migration policy has led to fragmented governance that depends on agreements with the EU. This limits migrants' access to basic rights and contributes to a precarious situation where transit migration has become a pressing humanitarian issue. Although Tunisia has signed several international conventions, the lack of effective implementation creates legal gaps and increases migrant vulnerability.
Prejudices and Stigmatizing Narratives in Morocco and Tunisia
Both countries face significant challenges regarding public perceptions of migration, particularly toward Sub-Saharan migrants.
- Morocco: Some media reports have contributed to spreading an image of sub-Saharan migrants as mainly “in transit” or “in an irregular situation,” which can influence social perceptions and encourage certain attitudes of reserve. This partial representation limits recognition of the diversity of migration profiles and complicates the dynamics of integration and access to rights. However, initiatives from civil society and certain media outlets are gradually promoting a more inclusive narrative that is more respectful of the reality of migration.
- Tunisia: Pressure on the country to act as a migration barrier for Europe has led to the emergence of a discourse equating sub-Saharan migration with illegality and crime. This rhetoric not only affects public opinion but also influences the implementation of restrictive policies that neglect the fundamental rights of migrants.
Prejudices and Stigmatizing Narratives in Morocco and Tunisia
In 2014, Morocco implemented the National Strategy for immigration and asylum ( SNIA), focused on migrant regularization, access to basic rights, and collaboration with civil society actors. Despite advances, there are ongoing challenges in implementing Law n°02-03, particularly regarding residence permit renewals and the precarious status of migrants who do not meet regularization criteria.
Tunisia has attempted to address migration through cooperation with the EU and support from NGOs to provide humanitarian aid to migrants. However, in the absence of a comprehensive framework, this assistance is insufficient, and the country needs to strengthen its governance system to ensure migrant protection and dignity.
Policy Recommendations
Full Implementation of International Conventions
Morocco and Tunisia should effectively enforce the international conventions they have ratified to protect the rights of migrants and refugees.
Reform and Development of National Legislation
- Morocco: Review Law n°02-03 to facilitate migrant integration and reduce barriers to regularization.
- Tunisia: Develop a comprehensive migration governance framework that addresses the country’s specific challenges and ensures basic rights for migrants.
Awareness Campaigns to Reduce Stigma
Both countries should promote campaigns to reduce the stigmatization of migrants, dismantling prejudices and fostering an inclusive view.
Establishment of a Regional Migration Data Observatory
The creation of a regional migration data observatory aims to complement existing efforts, such as those carried out by the African Union Migration Observatory, which provides valuable insights into migration dynamics based on government sources. The proposed regional approach emphasizes the collection of empirical data directly from mobility actors (migrants, local communities, associations) in order to better reflect lived realities and individual experiences. This complementary approach allows for a more nuanced understanding of migration patterns in the region, from both an institutional and human perspective.
By focusing on empirical data collection, the observatory will be able to capture the complexities and dynamics of migration that are often overlooked in state-reported data. This includes understanding the motivations, routes, and challenges faced by migrants, as well as the socio-economic impacts on both origin and destination communities.
Establish an observatory to compile and analyze data on migration flows in the Maghreb and Sahel, supporting evidence-based policy decisions.
Promotion of a Balanced Partnership with the EU
Encourage a Maghreb-Sahel-EU collaboration that prioritizes human dignity, socio-economic development, and the orderly and safe management of migration. Encourage a Maghreb-Sahel-EU collaboration that prioritizes curbing human trafficking of migrants, human dignity, socio-economic development, and the orderly and safe management of migration.
Migration Crisis and Violence in the Sahel: The Case of Mauritania and Niger
Over the past decade, we have extensively analyzed the Sahel as one of the most crucial migration routes, serving as the starting point for thousands of individuals seeking a European destination and facing numerous risks. Migrants traverse the Mediterranean via the corridor from Niger to Libya and, to a lesser extent, Tunisia, or they continue their journey along the North African coast or the Atlantic. However, these migrations still represent a relatively small percentage compared to intra-African migrations. The Center for African Studies explains: “Most African migration remains within the continent, following a long-established pattern.
Approximately 21 million documented Africans live in another African country, a figure likely lower than the actual number since many African countries do not track migration. Urban areas in Nigeria, South-Africa, and Egypt are the main destinations for this intra-African migration, reflecting the relative economic dynamism of these places. Among African emigrants who have moved outside the continent, about 11 million live in Europe, nearly 5 million in the Middle East, and more than 3 million in North America.” In recent years, other involuntary migrations have been observed due to the crisis in the Western Sahel, making Mauritania a key place of refuge.
Mauritania, known for its stability in the Sahel, is facing a migration crisis due to the arrival of Fulani refugees from Mali, who are fleeing violence and the displacement of livestock farming. These refugees, upon arriving in Mauritania, must share limited resources with local communities, leading to tensions and challenges for social cohesion and sustainable development. Humanitarian aid, although present, is insufficient due to the continuous influx of refugees and the resumption of conflict in Mali.
In Niger, the Tahoua region has become a refuge for displaced people from Menaka, Mali, where conflicts between Tuaregs and the Islamic State have been intense. The lack of resources and prolonged droughts have exacerbated the situation, forcing herders and livestock farmers to move. Migrations in the Sahel are mainly intracontinental and forced, with families seeking safety within the region rather than emigrating to Europe.
The migration route between Niger and Libya is dangerous, with systematic human rights violations. Cooperation between Niger and Europe on migration control has deteriorated, especially after the crisis with France and the expulsion of French troops. This has led to a reactivation of traditional and safer migration routes within the Sahel.
In summary, violence and instability in the Sahel have caused massive displacements, with refugees seeking safety in neighboring countries. Humanitarian response is crucial but insufficient, and international cooperation is essential to improve the living conditions of displaced people and refugees in the region.
Conclusions
The Maghreb-Sahel region faces complex migration challenges due to recent shifts in mobility dynamics that have transformed Morocco and Tunisia—historically emigration countries—into key transit and destination hubs for individuals from Sub-Saharan Africa, the Maghreb, and Europe. This transformation has introduced significant challenges for formulating migration management policies, particularly in a context marked by European Union (EU) pressure to control northbound migration flows and internal constraints within these countries.
In Morocco, the implementation of Law n°02-03 of 2003 and regularization policies has shown progress. However, significant barriers to migrant integration persist, with many facing difficulties obtaining residency permits and finding themselves in vulnerable situations. While Morocco has demonstrated commitment through frameworks like the Global Compact for Migration, key reforms—such as the anticipated asylum law and the anti-racism law—are still awaited. These laws would play an essential role in protecting migrant rights and combating discrimination, addressing stigmatization, and promoting social cohesion by tackling racial biases that associate African immigration primarily with Sub-Saharan regions.
Tunisia, meanwhile, lacks a comprehensive migration governance framework, leading to a reliance on bilateral agreements with the EU and support from international organizations to manage migration flows. This absence of structured legislation limits migrants' access to basic rights, contributing to a precarious environment, particularly for those seeking transit to Europe.
The migration crisis in the Sahel, particularly in countries like Mauritania and Niger, exacerbates the situation. Instability and violence in the region have led to mass displacements, creating additional pressures on the limited resources of host countries. Insufficient international cooperation and inadequate humanitarian response leave these populations in critical conditions.
To address these challenges, it is essential for Morocco and Tunisia to fully implement their international commitments regarding human rights and migrant protection. Additionally, establishing a regional migration data observatory in the Maghreb-Sahel and promoting awareness campaigns could help reduce stigmatization and foster greater inclusivity. Furthermore, balanced collaboration with the EU that prioritizes human dignity and sustainable development is vital, fostering a migration management approach that addresses the needs and realities of the region.
In conclusion, migration in the Maghreb-Sahel region requires integrated responses at both national and regional levels, combining humanitarian efforts with inclusive and sustainable policies to address the present and future challenges in the region. The implementation of pending legislation, such as Morocco's asylum and anti-racism laws, would be a significant step towards establishing more comprehensive, rights-based migration governance.
