EU EXTERNAL MIGRATION POLICY: RETURN AND READMISSION - The Principle of Sincere Cooperation in Implementing EU Return Policy Through a Neofunctionalist Lens

Abstract

This thesis explores the external dimension of EU return policy from a different perspective with a focus on the role of the principle of sincere cooperation. It departs from traditional perspectives, primarily situated in intergovernmentalism and around the concepts of actorness, distribution of powers, external governance, and looks at the problem from the paradigm of neofunctionalism. Moreover, the study aims to show how soft instruments may undermine the validity of sincere cooperation within the EU's migration governance framework. This approach provides valuable insight into the effectiveness of instruments regulating complexities surrounding the EU's external dimension of return policy. Through a sound analysis of existing literature and empirical data, the study aims to fill gaps in understanding and contribute to the broader discourse on migration governance. Specifically, in the context of cooperation on readmission with third countries, it emphasizes the imperative of continuous cooperation and coordination between the EU and its Member States as a fundamental requirement for policy implementation. This not only in the prevailing operational environment, but also in political and strategic dialogue between the EU and Member States as well as with third countries to address underlying issues and concerns. In this regard it argues for a balance between the external and internal dimension of the EU return policy regarding its efficiency.