The Governance of South–South Migration: Same or Different?

Abstract

AbstractWhile trying to pinpoint some features that distinguish South–South migration from migration to the Global North, this chapter reflects on the challenges of defining South–South migration, since the concept of Global South itself is deliberately vague and flexible. The chapter approaches South–South migration as a complex and diverse phenomenon, the governance of which is rendered particularly challenging by inequalities at the global level, as well as between southern countries and within them. Since South–South migration often occurs in challenging contexts characterised, among others, by the prevalence of labour market informality, irregular status and/or temporariness, it requires southern responses adapted to specific needs. The chapter considers the implications of these characteristics of migration between the countries of the Global South for migration governance policies, identifying some tools, practices and guidance for policy and programmatic responses that can facilitate the good governance of South–South migration and the protection of the rights of migrants and refugees in the Global South.