Refugees at Europe's Borders: The Moral Economy of Care

Abstract

In recent years the treatment of those seeking asylum in industrialized countries has been a matter of increasing international concern. Human rights organizations have documented instances of ill treatment and the summary expulsion of those trying to cross borders in the hope of a more secure existence. This article focuses on the treatment of asylum seekers and undocumented migrants at Europe's borders, presenting examples from Europe's southern border, Belgium and the UK. The idea of a moral economy of care is invoked which provides an overarching context in which legitimate and illegitimate asylum seekers and refugees are identified. The implications of a moral economy of care are explored in relation to the provision of mental health and social care services to refugees.