Public debates about migration policies are hotter and more controversial than ever. However, both in the media and in political spheres, unrealistic or even mythic conceptions about migration policies often prevail. On the one hand, some tend to exaggerate their potential effectiveness in driving social processes (no one would dream of asking from tax policies, for example, the absolute effectiveness that many seem to expect from borders control). At the opposite extreme, many view migration policies as necessarily doomed to failure (thereby depicting migration as an intrinsically “uncontrollable” phenomenon). Obviously, the truth lies somewhere in between, but where, exactly? Paradoxically, with respect to this crucial question, there are just a few answers based on solid research evidence. The ‘effectiveness gap’ between policy intentions and perceived outcomes of immigration policies, has long been  an important subject of theoretical discussion. But, on the empirical side, our knowledge remains patchy and uncertain. This is why FIERI is particularly happy to present this working paper by Alessio Cangiano (University of the South Pacific) and Roberto Impicciatore (university of Milan). On the basis of recent data and through an innovative method, the WP investigates the complex triangular relationship between migration patterns, individual (and family) strategies, and policy constraints. The results, based on a broad comparison among eleven European countries, are not only interesting for researchers, but also relevant to policymakers.

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