Is the indiscriminate detention of irregular migrants a cost-effective policy tool? : a case-study of the Amygdaleza Pre-Removal Center

Abstract

The purpose of this new policy is straightforward: to secure that all irregular migrants — unless granted international protection — will be returned to their home countries. Faced with the deprivation of their liberty and without the hope of a timely release, the Greek authorities believe that migrants will be forced to co-operate and accept a so called “voluntary” [assisted] return or indeed a forced return to their country of origin. Greece will thus succeed in reducing the overall size of its irregular migrant population. At the same, this new policy is expected to act as a deterrent since it will “send a strong signal to third-country nationals willing to illegally enter Greece,” and “warn all immigrants who do not fall under the status of international protection that they will be arrested, detained and returned to the countries of origin.