The Development Gap in Southern Mediterranean Countries and its Repercussions on the Rise of Illegal Migration to Europe – An Analytical Study

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the relationship between the multidimensional development gap in the countries of the Southern Mediterranean and the growing phenomenon of irregular migration toward Europe. The study is based on a central hypothesis that economic, social, political, security, and environmental imbalances prevailing in the Southern Mediterranean countries constitute major driving factors of migration, particularly in light of the limited effectiveness of security-based approaches adopted in managing the phenomenon. The study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology, complemented by an interpretive causal analysis, relying on data and international reports issued by United Nations and European organizations, as well as a critical review of relevant academic literature. The findings indicate that the widening development gap, along with the deterioration of governance and stability indicators, contributes directly and indirectly to strengthening the drivers of irregular migration. The study concludes that addressing this phenomenon in a sustainable manner requires the adoption of comprehensive and cooperative development-oriented approaches that go beyond traditional security responses.