From Refuge to Risk: Terrorism, Securitization, and the Transformation of Migration Politics in Europe

Abstract

The intersection of terrorism and migration has profoundly influenced European politics, particularly since the early 2000s, amid rising terrorist attacks and large-scale migration flows. This study examines how the threat of terrorism has reshaped migration policy frameworks in key European countries, focusing on securitization trends that link migrants to security risks. Using a qualitative document analysis approach, the research explores four dimensions: the shaping of migration policies by terrorism threats, the political and social consequences for migrant communities, the balance between national security and human rights in counter-terrorism strategies, and the role of public perception in influencing legislation. Findings indicate that terrorist events, such as the 2015 Paris attacks, have led to stricter border controls and asylum restrictions, often exacerbating xenophobia and marginalizing migrant groups. Comparative analysis with historical patterns reveals that while these policies aim to enhance security, they frequently infringe on human rights and foster social division. The study concludes that without balanced frameworks prioritizing integration and rights, terrorism-related migration policies risk deepening societal fractures and undermining European values of inclusivity.

Keywords: Terrorism, Migration, Europe, Securitization, Policy Frameworks, Human Rights, Public Perception, Counter-Terrorism