ABSTRACT
Chapter one described the mismatch between, on the one hand, increasing mobility, and on the other hand, a tightening of the rules of admission. In migration literature, links between countries of origin and countries of destination are usually called the ‘intermediate structure’. Van Amersfoort (1998) distinguishes three separate elements of the intermediate structure. First of all, there are technical means for transport and connection, such as airlines, airport, shipping lines, and harbours. In the globalised world, distance has lost much of its meaning seeing as transportation’s infrastructure has improved, and almost all places in the world are linked to one other. The second element refers to those resources needed for individuals to effectively utilise transport links, such as information and/or money. The third element of the intermediate structure is put in place by political or legal authorities: travel and residency regulations and requirements such as passports, visas, etc. According to the general discourse, no migration should exist between countries that have implemented strong restrictions. However, in reality, the discrepancy between an increased desire to migrate and the restrictions of receiving countries has given free play to smugglers and all sorts of institutions providing alternatives for people who want to cross the border, without regard for legal limitations. More mobility combined with greater restrictions has meant more breaches of law.
