An Analysis of Securitization of Migration in The Implementation of The African Union’s Migration Regime: The Case of Kenya and South Africa
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Date
2024
Authors
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Publisher
Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to analyze the implementation of the African Union Migration regimes in Kenya and South Africa. The study’s specific objectives were: To examine the development of the African Union migration regime; To compare the implementation of the AU migration regime in Kenya and South Africa and; To analyze the extent to which securitization of migration influences Kenya’s and South Africa’s policies on migration. The study employed a qualitative approach that relied on document analysis. The analysis of AU policies and national policies in Kenya and South Africa, was complemented by Key informant interviews with bureaucrats, technocrats at the AU Commission and officials from the two governments. The study targeted up to 18 key informants with a response rate of 12 informants which represents 66.67%. The study found that Kenya and South Africa navigate a complex migration landscape guided by the African Union Migration Policy Framework, emphasizing social integration, economic opportunities, and migrants' rights, with both nations prioritizing border management and regional cooperation through bodies like SADC and EAC. Additionally, the study also found that Kenya and South Africa demonstrate, to some extent, coherence with AU migration principles, however in reference to the two-level game theory, implementation is affected by domestic interests on national security. Finally, on the impact of securitization on migration policies in Kenya and South Africa the study found regional security challenges, economic factors, and xenophobia as influential factors. The challenges faced by migrants and refugees, included: insufficient resources, exploitation, migrant exclusion in economic development and planning and xenophobia. The study recommended ongoing review and harmonization of national legislation to ensure consistency to the African Union’s migration regimes and adherence to evolving continental standards.
Description
Master of Arts in Diplomacy, Development, and International Security
Keywords
African Union Migration regimes, Kenya and South Africa
Citation
Esipila, L. A. (2024). An Analysis of Securitization of Migration in The Implementation of The African Union’s Migration Regime: The Case of Kenya and South Africa. Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences