The Size of the Irregular Migrant Population in the European Union - Counting the Uncountable?

Abstract

It is difficult to estimate the size of the irregular migrant population in a specific city or country, and even more difficult to arrive at estimates at the European level. A review of past attempts at European-level estimates reveals that they rely on rough and outdated rules-of-thumb. In this paper, we present our own European level estimates for 2002, 2005, and 2008. We aggregate country-specific information, aiming at approximate comparability by consistent use of minimum and maximum estimates and by adjusting for obvious differences in definition and timescale. While the aggregated estimates are not considered highly reliable, they do -- for the first time -- provide transparency. The provision of more systematic medium quality estimates is shown to be the most promising way for improvement. The presented estimate indicates a minimum of 1.9 million and a maximum of 3.8 million irregular foreign residents in the 27 member states of the European Union (2008). Unlike rules-of-thumb, the aggregated EU estimates indicate a decline in the number of irregular foreign residents between 2002 and 2008. This decline has been influenced by the EU enlargement and legalisation programmes.

Reporting mental health problems of undocumented migrants in Greece: A qualitative exploration

“…[1] These so-called undocumented migrants (UMs) include rejected asylum seekers, individuals who have entered a country illegally, and visa 'over-stayers'. [2] They often live in harsh circumstances and with insufficient income for their basic needs.…”

Causes of death among undocumented migrants in Sweden, 1997–2010

“…Indications of a declining number are thought to be a result of the EU’s growth and its legalization programs (1). The corresponding figure for Sweden is estimated at 10,000–50,000, of which 2,000–3,000 are believed to be children (2).…”

Suicidal Behaviors in Patients Admitted to Emergency Department for Psychiatric Consultation: A Comparison of the Migrant and Native Italian Populations Between 2008 and 2015

“…Some estimations about the 2002-2008 period show that 1.9-3.8 million irregular/undocumented migrants lived in the EU, with possible diiculty to access basic healthcare and social services [45]. Furthermore, there are concerns about irregular/undocumented migrants' vulnerability to physical and mental health risks, which may be worsened by diicult socioeconomic conditions and limited access to health services [46].…”