ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the historical evolution of the linkage between the Mediterranean and migration policies of the European Community (EC), later the European Union (EU). It discusses the role of migration in the Euro-Arab dialogue, which brought together the EC and the Arab League. It also investigates the negotiations for cooperation agreements between the EC and Third Mediterranean Countries, conducted within the framework of the Global Mediterranean Policy (1972–1992). The chapter, in addition, examines the part played by migration in the development of the Renovated Mediterranean Policy (1992–1995) and, more importantly, in the launch of the Barcelona Process (1995). Finally, it analyses the relationship between migration and the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership (1995–2008). In conclusion, the chapter shows the increasing importance of migration in the Mediterranean policy of the EC/EU. Also, it demonstrates that there was a shift in priorities. While in the 1970s emphasis was put on socio-economic integration of Southern Mediterranean immigrants, in the 1980s and in the 1990s increasing attention was devoted to the fight against illegal immigration from the South; this, in turn, significantly contributed to change the general approach of the European Union to the Mediterranean policy.
