Border Abolitionism: Migrants' Containment and the Genealogies of Struggles and Rescue

This book critiques migration and border policies, challenging the distinction between migrants and citizens and examining the multiplication of modes of migration confinement and detention in Europe. It argues that the collective memory of past struggles has informed current solidarity movements in support of migrants and that the right to mobility is part of the struggle for the commons.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2023
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This book, building on an abolitionist perspective, provides a vital critique of migration and border policies, challenging the distinction between migrants and citizens. It stands as the sole book that brings together critical migration literature and carceral abolitionist debates. By exploring the multiplication of modes of migration confinement and detention in Europe, it examines how these practices are justified in the name of protecting migrants. The book argues that the collective memory of past struggles has partly informed current solidarity movements in support of migrants. A grounded critique of migration policies involves questioning the notion that migrants' rights come at the expense of citizens. An abolitionist approach to borders entails recognizing the right to mobility as part of the struggle for the commons.

Introduction:
The book under review offers a profound exploration of migration and border policies, challenging the conventional dichotomy between migrants and citizens. By adopting an abolitionist lens, it provides a critical analysis of these policies, unsettling the established boundaries between the two groups. This book stands as a unique contribution to the field, as it brings together carceral abolitionist debates and critical migration literature, offering a comprehensive examination of the complex dynamics surrounding migration.

Multiplication of Modes of Migration Confinement and Detention:
The book delves into the alarming proliferation of modes of migration confinement and detention in Europe. It sheds light on the various practices employed by governments to control and manage migration, including detention centers, border walls, and restrictive immigration policies. The author questions the justifications provided for these measures, arguing that they often serve to perpetuate harm and discrimination against migrants.

Justification of Migration Confinement and Detention:
The book challenges the notion that migration confinement and detention are necessary for the protection of migrants. It examines how these practices are justified in the name of safeguarding national security, preventing terrorism, and ensuring public order. The author argues that these justifications are often based on stereotypes, misinformation, and a lack of understanding of the complex realities faced by migrants.

Collective Memory of Past Struggles:
The book draws upon the collective memory of past struggles to inform current solidarity movements in support of migrants. It highlights the role of historical events, such as the Holocaust, slavery, and colonization, in shaping the attitudes and policies towards migration today. The author argues that these past experiences have contributed to the formation of a shared understanding of the importance of human rights and the need to protect vulnerable populations.

Solidarity Movements in Support of Migrants:
The book explores the emergence and growth of solidarity movements in support of migrants. It examines the various factors that have fueled these movements, including social media, grassroots organizing, and the increasing visibility of migrant rights issues. The author argues that these movements have played a crucial role in challenging the dominant narratives surrounding migration and promoting a more inclusive and compassionate approach to border policies.

Abolitionist Approach to Borders:
The book advocates for an abolitionist approach to borders, recognizing the right to mobility as part of the struggle for the commons. It argues that borders are not natural or inevitable, but rather are constructed and maintained through political and economic power. The author proposes that the right to mobility should be extended to all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, and that borders should be dismantled to promote greater freedom of movement and human rights.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a thought-provoking and essential critique of migration and border policies. By adopting an abolitionist perspective, it challenges the conventional distinctions between migrants and citizens, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to border policies. The book sheds light on the proliferation of modes of migration confinement and detention in Europe, examining how these practices are justified in the name of protecting migrants. It also draws upon the collective memory of past struggles to inform current solidarity movements in support of migrants. Finally, the book advocates for an abolitionist approach to borders, recognizing the right to mobility as part of the struggle for the commons. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, activists, and policymakers interested in understanding the complexities of migration and border policies.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 163 x 243 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526160935