European Policy Makers Research Articles

The European Unified Patent Court and non-practicing entities: a year of early evidence

ABSTRACT Traditionally, the debate over Non-Practicing Entities (NPEs) has centred on U.S. patent law, as this is the legal arena where most NPE lawsuits occur. However, the establishment of the European Unified Patent Court (UPC) has drawn increased attention from European policymakers, as it has the potential to escalate NPE activity by enhancing the litigation value of patents in Europe. In this article, I conduct an analysis of all infringement cases filed during the first year of operation of the UPC. I identify cases initiated by NPEs and collect details of the patents litigated and the companies involved. The main findings suggest that the UPC could become an attractive venue for NPEs to litigate their patents. NPEs initiate 13.0% of all cases, with their activity concentrated exclusively in the latter half of the period (December 2023 – May 2024), during which they represent 24.6% of total cases and 43.0% in the Electrical Engineering sector. In terms of patent characteristics, NPEs tend to litigate patents of lower quality than those pursued by other types of litigants.

Corporate governance and SME performance: Is technological capability a missing link?

Purpose This paper aims to examine the role of technological capability in the relationship between corporate governance and small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) performance. Design/methodology/approach Using panel data comprising 1,357 European SMEs from 2014 to 2020, this paper examines how technological capability acts as a mediator and moderator within the governance-performance nexus. Findings The results show a positive and significant link between corporate governance mechanisms and SME performance, as well as between technological capability and SME performance. In addition, this paper show that technological capability plays a crucial role in moderating and mediating the governance-performance relationship. Specifically, technological capability accentuates the positive effects of board size, the presence of outside directors and concentrated ownership on SME performance. Conversely, it attenuates the positive impacts of CEO duality and board gender diversity on SME performance. These results highlight corporate governance mechanisms and technological capability’s crucial role in significantly influencing SME performance. Practical implications The results suggest that SMEs should prioritize not only the implementation of effective corporate governance mechanisms but also the strategic utilization of technological innovations to boost performance. European policymakers are encouraged to enact supportive policies on technological innovation to strengthen the governance-performance dynamic. Originality/value This study contributes to the governance-performance literature by offering new insights into the critical role of technological capability, which has been previously explored in partial and fragmented ways.

5.L. Round table: Gaining or losing ground? Leveraging social innovation to improve abortion access in Europe

Abstract Sexual and reproductive health services are fundamental to ensuring a wide range of human rights, including the right to health. This includes guaranteeing access to abortion care, which international human rights bodies and the World Health Organization have recognised as a critical component of states’ obligation to respect and ensure human rights. Abortion regulation in Europe continues to evolve along a continuum from restrictive to liberal. For decades, the legislative trend across Europe has been towards the expansion of entitlements to abortion, and the repeal of legal and policy restrictions. In the last ten years, over 15 European countries have undertaken reforms to modernize their laws, including Belgium, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Spain. Currently, new progressive reforms are being considered in several countries. However, more restrictive reforms have also been adopted. Health system structures and sociopolitical, cultural, ethical, and moral dimensions shape access to abortion services, while abortion regulation often causes tensions in countries. The landscape is complex, with debates over legalisation and decriminalisation of abortion, and the procedural steps to ensure service provision. Differences in regulation across and within countries result in myriad access inequalities. Understanding abortion regulation in Europe is vital to assessing service equity and access. Exploring the sociopolitical contexts of abortion helps identify potential actions for ensuring access to abortion care. In exploring the range of potential actions, we focus on social innovation, i.e., new social practices to better meet social needs and the processes undertaken to get there. The country expert (HSPM) network of the European Observatory has launched a cross-country study of the state of abortion services in 19 high-income countries since 2018. This workshop will outline the legal, regulatory, service-delivery, and sociopolitical contexts of abortion in Europe, identifying challenges to access. It will take recent experiences in Germany, Ireland, and Portugal to examine differential access, ongoing political debates, and social positioning of abortion in Europe, and as a springboard to discuss the role of social innovation in shaping legal and regulatory changes. Lastly, this workshop will explore how the public health research community can contribute to evidence-based abortion policymaking and implementation. This interactive workshop will start with a presentation of findings from the European Observatory’s cross-country comparison. Then, country experts from the 3 case studies and a representative from the Center for Reproductive Rights will examine the sociopolitical environment of abortion policymaking in Europe. Discussion with audience interventions will reflect on opportunities for social innovation and movement building toward better access to abortion care in Europe and explore the role of the public health research community. Key messages • European abortion laws constantly evolve with a prevalent legislative trend towards expanding access and removing barriers; social innovation can be a lever to progressive law and policy reforms. • In all countries, those seeking abortion care continue to experience multiple access barriers, including those related to policy, regulation, financing, geography, and culture. Speakers/Panelists Katherine Polin Berlin University of Technology, Berlin, Germany Miriam Blümel Berlin University of Technology, Berlin, Germany Catherine Conlon Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland Ines Fronteira National School of Public Health - NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal Adriana Lamačková Center for Reproductive Rights, Geneva, Switzerland

Positive effects from the introduction of fully subsidised nicotine replacement therapy in Ireland

Abstract Smoking remains a leading cause of preventable death in the Europe. Despite recent declines in prevalence, the adverse health and economic effects of smoking are felt disproportionately by disadvantaged groups. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is well established as an effective smoking cessation aid; however, its financial cost may act as a barrier to uptake. In February 2023, eligibly for fully subsidised NRT was expanded to all users of smoking cessation services in Ireland. This study evaluated the impact of universal access to NRT on smoking cessation. This study utilised secondary analysis of routinely collected data from service users attending Irish smoking cessation services. Individuals were followed for twelve weeks. Changes in self-reported quit status and NRT use were analysed before (January 2021 - February 2023) and after (March 2023 - December 2023) the introduction of fully subsidised NRT. Logistic regression modelling identified factors associated with smoking cessation. The total number of participants was 19,717. There was higher uptake of NRT among service users who were eligible for free NRT (59% vs 40%, p < 0.001) and higher quit rates at four (41% vs 29%, p < 0.001) and twelve (29% vs 20%, p < 0.001) weeks. Logistic regression models demonstrated that NRT use was significantly associated with smoking cessation at four (aOR 1.88, 95%CI 1.47 - 2.41) and twelve (aOR 1.76, 95%CI 1.37 - 2.28) weeks. This study confirms the effectiveness of NRT in an Irish context and illustrates the benefits of universal access to this life saving medicine. Targeted interventions are required to intensify services offered to disadvantages groups if the ambitious objectives of Tobacco Endgame are to be achieved. These findings represent an urgent call to action for European policy makers to deliver equitable access to NRT across the continent. Such action can transform the public health landscape and help bring us closer to achieving a tobacco free Europe. Key messages • This study confirms the real-world effectiveness of NRT use as a smoking cessation aid. • The removal of financial barriers is associated with increased NRT use and successful smoking cessation.

Joint Action JACARDI: a context analysis on CVDs and diabetes policies and practices

Abstract Issue/problem Non-communicable diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in Europe, with 63 million people living with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and 32 million with diabetes (DM) in 2019. The EU-co-funded Joint Action on CVDs and diabetes (JACARDI), with 76 partners from 21 countries, aims to reduce CVDs and DM burden at European level through 142 pilot projects. Description of the problem For an effective and tailored pilots’ implementation, a preliminary step is to assess the current state of strategies and services for CVDs and DM prevention and management in Europe. We adopt the Gap Analysis methodology aiming to evaluate the gap between the current and the ideal state, the latter defined according to scientific evidence, best-practices, guidelines, and expert’s opinions. For this purpose, 12 questionnaires, one for CVDs and one for DM for six different thematic areas, were developed through a participatory approach that fostered the collaboration between the scientific coordination team and the project members. Results Questionnaires were sent to National Focal Points for health covering 29 European countries. We anticipate receiving responses from each country covering aspects related to the legal and strategic framework, the intersectoral and equity-oriented approaches, the funding and the service delivery and capacity for CVDs and DM. This information will be collected across each of the six thematic areas corresponding to six technical Work Packages (WP): health literacy, data, screening, integrated-care pathways, patients self-management, labour participation. The survey will be completed by June 2024, and results by WP and country will be presented. Lessons The context analysis, based on the Gap Analysis methodology, allows to identify gaps between the current and ideal state in CVDs and DM prevention and management. This will guide JACARDI’s pilots to address gaps and serve as a roadmap to inform European policy-makers. Key messages • The context analysis will provide an invaluable overview of the current European state of CVDs and DM prevention and management. • The context analysis will support JACARDI’s pilots in addressing identified gaps and policy-makers in shaping public health responses.

Developing an Evidence-Based Primary Cancer Prevention Repository: insights from the PIECES project

Abstract Introduction Up to 40% of cancer cases could be avoided through effective primary prevention. However, cancer prevention tends to be fragmented across Europe, leading to geographical health differences. The dissemination and scale-up of effective primary cancer prevention interventions may address this. Although effective cancer prevention programs exist, finding them and their materials (especially regarding implementation) can be challenging. Repositories of evidence-based interventions provide insight into “what is out there” and can support dissemination within and across national borders. The PIECES project aims to develop and disseminate a repository of evidence-based primary cancer prevention programs adaptable to European contexts, with information to aid adaptation and implementation across countries. Methods The development of the PIECES repository has been informed by established repositories such as NCI’s Evidence-Based Cancer Control Programs. The project team developed a scoring sheet with a selection of items that could be included in the repository. All participants rated each item on relevance and applicability and provided comments and suggestions. A final framework, including a set of minimal requirement items, was agreed upon during three online consensus building meetings. Results We created a repository of evidence-based primary cancer prevention interventions targeting modifiable risk factors suitable for implementation in European healthcare settings. This 22-item repository provides information about an intervention’s logic model, implementation practices, and appraisal of published evidence of effectiveness. Conclusions This repository is innovative as it includes practical information and tools to facilitate implementation. While initially built to serve the PIECES project, the repository is designed to be a valuable tool for European policymakers, researchers, and implementers. Lessons learned from this process will inform future developers. Key messages • A comprehensive cancer prevention intervention repository avoids “reinventing the wheel” and allows for more efficient use of existing interventions by building upon the best available evidence. • The ongoing efforts of the PIECES project represent a significant contribution to reduce cancer prevention disparities and to facilitate the adoption of evidence-based interventions in Europe.

Knowledge and attitudes of the Italian population on sharing health data: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Healthcare digitization enhances data accessibility but faces data management and privacy challenges. The study sought to explore the Italian public’s understanding and views on storing and sharing health data for treatment and research purposes, as well as factors influencing their attitudes toward health data management and sharing. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire assessed socio-demographic information, knowledge about health data sharing, and attitudes toward sharing data for treatment and scientific purposes. Descriptive analyses and multivariable logistic regressions were performed to examine the associations between sociodemographic factors and knowledge/attitudes about data storage and sharing. Results A total of 1,389 citizens participated. Most respondents (65.4%) thought that healthcare providers could access personal health data nationwide, while 94% expressed willingness to share personal health data nationwide. A high percentage of respondents (73%) fully agreed that storing and sharing personal health-related data could improve research and quality of care. Males and younger individuals (<41 years) were likelier to have higher data-sharing knowledge (adjusted Odds Ratio [adjOR] 1.50, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.03 - 2.18, and adjOR 1.99, 95% CI 1.29 - 3.08 respectively). Lower educational-level respondents exhibited lower positive attitudes towards sharing health data for treatment and research purposes (adjOR 0.18, 95% CI 0.05-0.58 for high school, and adjOR 0.11, 95% CI 0.03-0.41 for middle school or lower, compared to those with a university degree). Conclusions The findings offer valuable perspectives for European policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and researchers who aim to enhance data handling, foster cooperation, and maximize the benefits of health data for tailored care and scientific progress. Key messages • Italian citizens show strong willingness to share health data nationwide for treatment and research, suggesting a favorable environment for collaborative healthcare initiatives. • Sociodemographic factors such as age and education level influence attitudes towards health data sharing, stressing interventions to ensure equitable access and participation in data-driven healthcare.

Italian winegrowers’ Acceptance of result-based agri-environmental schemes

Abstract As the debate around the cost-effectiveness of agri-environmental schemes (AES) is growing at the European level, researchers and policymakers are exploring the potential of result-based AES. Result-based AES initiate payments only if pre-defined environmental outcomes are achieved, thus increasing risks for farmers. Using a contingent valuation method, we investigated Italian winegrowers’ acceptance and intensity of participation in a result-based AES targeted at pollinators’ conservation in vineyards. We focused on the role of farmers’ behavioural factors and risk attitudes in driving the acceptance. Results show that, among the 222 farmers who completed the survey, 71 per cent of participants are willing to participate in such a scheme. Non-participation is associated with a high perceived bureaucratic burden. Risk also plays a significant role, as the perceived risk of the scheme decreases the likelihood of enrolment, while risk-seeking farmers are more likely to participate. We found no evidence of risk affecting the intensity of participation. In contrast, while a treatment of a randomly assigned rare-species bonus did not affect the scheme's overall acceptance, it positively influenced intensity. Behavioural factors appear to be related to both acceptance and intensity. Considering this, we suggest strategies to encourage farmer participation in result-based AES.

Networks and perception in European policymaking

Networks and perception in European policymaking

Women in parliaments: Can they enhance environmental sustainability in the EU?

Environmental deterioration is a significant and multi-dimensional issue that concerns the modern world. During the last decades, research has been conducted to address this argument, intending to provide holistic policies that drive sustainable development. However, the European Union (EU) should further provoke the complementarity between growth and environmental quality. Recognizing that gender equality must be introduced in Agenda (2030), this paper intends to examine the impact of well-established macroeconomic and socioeconomic variables in existing literature alongside the role of women in governance. More specifically, this study uses panel data analysis to investigate the understanding of the effects of economic growth, renewable energy, human capital, female representation in parliaments, and environmental regulation on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in 20 European countries from 2004 to 2018. Empirically, the study employs several econometric tests and approaches. Findings partially confirm the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis, while renewable energy and tertiary education enhance sustainability. Environmental regulation is significant for policymakers as it decreases pollution. The role of women in parliaments, which has been scarcely examined in existing literature, appears to be beneficial for the prosperity of EU societies. All empirical findings leave ample room for further discussion among European stakeholders and policymakers, emphasizing the importance of female participation in governance.

Navigating organizational change: sequential vs simultaneous approaches to innovation management in modern enterprises

Purpose This study aims to explore the relationship between innovation and strategic management in contemporary enterprises, emphasizing the navigation of organizational change for sustainable competitive advantage. This study addresses the challenge of adapting to dynamic environments and the critical role of leadership, organizational culture and collaboration in successful innovation management. Design/methodology/approach The authors used the typology research design and comparative analysis to explore the principles and strategies underlying different innovation approaches. This study examines their impact on organizational structures, resource allocation and the integration of technological advancements with managerial practices. Findings The authors developed a typology of two innovation management models. The sequential approach emphasizes phased and incremental innovation, while the simultaneous approach advocates for dynamic and comprehensive integration of innovation across the organization. Each model presents distinct advantages and challenges, underscoring the need for a tailored approach based on the enterprise’s context and objectives. Mature companies may benefit from the sequential approach to gradually evolve their innovation, while new and high-tech-intensive companies can leverage the simultaneous approach for dynamic and continuous innovation. Research limitations/implications Future research should examine local bodies and trade unions’ perception on the energy crisis’ impact toward rural entrepreneurship. Practical implications The findings are useful to Greek and European policymakers and rural micro-entrepreneurs as the experience of dealing with several previous crises can be a useful tool when dealing with current and future crises. Originality/value This study enhances understanding of the complex interplay between organizational innovation and strategy. The authors recommend further exploration of emerging technologies, cultural values, collaboration, sustainable practices and changing customer behavior to boost innovation capabilities and achieve success.

The European Vocational Education and Training System: Towards a Unified Approach

The European vocational education and training system exhibits significant diversity, with each country implementing its unique approach. While a unified European solution is desirable, a lack of comprehensive knowledge in this area hinders the development of policies that could establish a basic model applicable to all countries, albeit with necessary variations due to socio-economic nuances. European policymakers and stakeholders recognize the importance of vocational education and training, including formats like Dual School and Work-based Learning. Nations have committed to common targets in their education and training strategies, driven by globalized competition and the need for professional workers skilled in new technologies. Nevertheless, with the support of established systems, this European solution shows great potential for seamless operation and effectiveness. A successful European strategy would take into account the advancements in technology, the unique regional and national characteristics of the workforce in terms of traditional skills and competencies, and notably, the available natural resources. These resources have become a crucial factor in industrial efficiency and competitiveness. Implementation of dual school models varies at the European level, influenced by national strategies shaped by local factors. Some countries prioritize collaboration with stakeholders and regulatory frameworks to optimize professional training, while others, like Romania and Bulgaria, are just beginning to adopt dual school laws, with emerging examples of best practices. Romania, in particular, has largely followed the German model due to economic influences. In 2006, the European Council recognized vocational training through dual schools as an excellent investment, yielding high returns, surpassing initial costs, and delivering long-term efficiency and productivity benefits.

Resilience of rural micro-businesses in an adverse entrepreneurial environment: adapting to the energy crisis

PurposeThis study aims to examine the potential adaptability and resilience of rural micro-businesses within a business environment affected by successive crises, specifically drawing conclusions on crisis management, while simultaneously highlighting enterprises’ capabilities in managing the current energy crisis, basis the experiences and best practices that they themselves have gained previously.Design/methodology/approachConvenience sampling was applied, effectively identifying 18 micro-entrepreneurs in rural Greece. Subsequently, qualitative research was conducted through semi-structured in-depth interviews.FindingsRural micro-businesses have shown adaptability and resilience to both economic and health crises through financial support received and interventions implemented. However, different crises’ types carry different business risks. The energy crisis has led to business operation’s energy costs and raw material prices multiplying exponentially. Additionally, they received limited financial support causing them to respond to the energy crisis though concrete defensive strategies and innovative interventions.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research should examine local bodies and trade unions’ perception on the energy crisis’ impact towards rural entrepreneurship.Practical implicationsThe findings are useful to Greek and European policy-makers and rural micro-entrepreneurs as the experience of dealing with several previous crises can be a useful tool when dealing with current and future crises.Originality/valueThis paper adds to international literature on rural micro-businesses resilience, operating in crisis mode. Additionally, it constitutes novel research exclusively focused on the new challenges faced by rural micro-businesses during the recent energy crisis.

Assessing financial stability in Southeast Europe (SEE): An econometric perspective

In the last decade, the global financial landscape, including Southeast Europe's eleven diverse economies, has been significantly impacted by multiple financial crises. These crises have led to economic downturns, unemployment spikes, and unstable financial structures. This study investigates financial stability and risks in Southeast Europe from 2012 to 2021, focusing on Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Montenegro, Greece, Croatia, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Serbia, and Turkey. It aims to identify factors influencing financial stability amid distinct economic challenges posed by global crises. Utilizing the Financial Stability Index (FSI) as the dependent variable, alongside the Banking Stability Index (BSI), inflation rate, GDP, and public debt as independent variables, the research employs data from the World Bank and The Global Economy. Analysis through STATA software and methods like OLS, OLSR, FE, RE, and GMM reveals the critical role of banking in financial stability, with a robust BSI positively impacting it, while inflation poses additional risks. The study advises Southeast European policymakers to prioritize banking stability and economic growth to enhance financial stability, while also managing inflation and public debt to reduce future financial risks. Our findings suggest that a one-unit increase in the BSI is associated with a 3.35-unit increase in the FSI, highlighting the banking sectors significant influence on regional financial stability. High public debt levels, conversely, are found to correspond with reduced financial stability, with a strong negative correlation of -0.634 between FSI and public debt. These findings underscore the importance of robust banking systems and sound fiscal policies in maintaining financial stability in the face of economic adversities.

Assessing the EU Climate and Energy Policy Priorities for Transport and Mobility through the Analysis of User-Generated Social Media Content Based on Text-Mining Techniques

For over three decades, the European Union’s (EU) transport policy has aimed at fostering environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. Since 2015, European policymakers have focused more on three key sustainable development goals: decarbonizing the transport system, promoting low-emission mobility solutions, and transitioning to renewable and alternative fuels. To effectively communicate priorities and engage stakeholders, EU policymakers regularly use social media platforms like Twitter (now known as X). This active discourse involves policymakers, industrial stakeholders, the media, and the public, offering insights into the role of transport policy in addressing climate change and energy transition challenges. The current research endeavors to track and analyze the evolution of user-generated content related to climate change, energy transition, and smart mobility on Twitter from 2011 to 2021. This research uses text-mining and social network analysis techniques to quantitatively and qualitatively assess the dynamics of relevant EU policies and their effects. The study’s findings can be used to establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework at the EU and national levels. This framework will assess the effectiveness of communicating strategic priorities for sustainable transport development. It also holds potential for application in other sectors, broadening its impact.

Discourses and bottom‐up policymaking in Europe and the EU

Discourses and bottom‐up policymaking in Europe and the EU

Sustainable or not sustainable pension fund: This is the question. The case of environmental social governance policies in the Italian pension system

The Environmental Social Governance (ESG) framework is a fundamental issue in every field of economics. Integrating ESG factors into business models, strategies, and policies is the new frontier for financial intermediaries as European policymakers, regulators, and investors increasingly require this. Also, Pension Funds face the daunting task of generating sufficient returns to provide adequate and sustainable retirement incomes for their members in the context of an aging population. This current study aims to determine the relationship between Pension Funds’ performance and ESG attention in asset allocation strategies and how relevant the presence of gender diversity is in the board to promote this attention. The obtained results can contribute to formulating a deeper view of ESG practices, revealing significant aspects that influence sustainability action in the Pension Funds Italian market and providing recommendations for European policymakers and practitioners for the future.

Legal incentives for innovations in the emotional AI domain: a carrot and stick approach?

Abstract Emotions strongly influence the human way of living and life experiences. In this context, Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are crucial to pushing developments further. Although emotional AI-driven innovations are welcome in our society, they might also have negative effects on the interdependence and autonomy of natural persons. Thus, they might be challenged by several legal provisions in the EU such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the draft AI Act. Yet these inventions require considerable investment, where legal incentives such as intellectual property rights (IPR) are crucial. Indeed, it is also important to secure certainty as to the legal and ethical acceptability of such innovations. This article looks at emotional AI to investigate the interlinkage between technological innovations, legal incentives and ethics, through the lenses of patent law and fundamental rights, in order to shed light over the challenges, limitations, but also opportunities for the protection, commercialization and exploitation of emotional AI-related inventions. Our research offers new scientific knowledge on the largely under-explored issue of legal incentives for emotional AI-related inventions in the European framework. It also provides companies and inventors with key points to consider in decision-making related to investments in and incentives for emotional AI-related innovations, also elaborating on suggestions for the European legislator and policymakers to better stimulate and promote emotional AI technology through regulation.

Reforming Japanese capitalism: introduction

ABSTRACT Is Japan creating a new economic model through digital and green transformation which will overcome its ‘lost decades’ lethargy and demographic challenges? Do Society 5.0, DX, GX, ‘new/sustainable capitalism’, Digital Garden City Nation and other initiatives represent a well-intentioned mish-mash, or something new and potentially coherent which other countries should take notice of? These questions animated a conference held in Oxford in February 2023, and subsequently informed the 11 articles in this special issue by European and Japanese academics and policy makers. The collection identifies tensions and contradictions but also significant changes in in corporate governance, innovation, public policy and human resources, which may point to a new direction for Japanese capitalism.

Can European foreign aid motivate people to stay in Africa? The root causes policy debate and irregular migration

AbstractMotivationIn European policy debate, conflict, economic crisis, lack of development, population growth, and climate change are often seen as the root causes of migration from Africa. To deter irregular migration to Europe, aid has thus been directed towards these perceived causes. This seems, however, not to deter irregular migration.PurposeWe explore the discrepancy between the official discourse of root causes and insights from research on migration decisions; and how discourse and evidence relate to aid. We ask what kind of policy change is needed if aid is possibly used to influence irregular migration. We focus on the motivations and drivers of migration and how development co‐operation may influence these.Methods and approachConsidering African migration to Europe, we examine the official European discourse on root causes of irregular migration, highlight recent developments in the academic understanding of migration aspirations and drivers, and investigate various attempts to analyse the impact of foreign aid on assumed “root causes” and migration.FindingsMigration is influenced by drivers that differ according to the specific context in which potential migrants decide to migrate or not. Aid to influence migration must be thoroughly adapted to the circumstances of potential migrants. Addressing so‐called root causes may be irrelevant to many potential migrants and will require long‐term change to have any impact. It may even increase migration in the short term. Foreign aid that adopts a blueprint regardless of context is unlikely to deter irregular migration in the short or medium term.Policy implicationsIf irregular African migration to Europe is to be deterred through development co‐operation, European policy‐makers and development practitioners need to elaborate and differentiate between aid‐supported activities through careful understanding of the migration dynamics specific to individual localities and societies.