ABSTRACT
In Germany, the question of irregular migration is increasingly the focus of political and scientific debate. This is occurring as an increasing number of local municipalities are addressing the problem, irregular migrants being perceived as part of the community – either through their own initiatives or as pressured by local organisations and churches. While at the national and European levels, political strategies are directed towards preventing irregular migration, expediting the shielding and protection of the European outer borders, local authorities are forced to acknowledge the unique life situation of irregular migrants, especially with regard to the possible course of communal action.
