The perception of Europe and Europeans by refugees from Dahuk. A report from research conducted in a refugee camp in Iraqi Kurdistan

This article presents the analysis from a research project carried out by the author in Dahuk, a refugee camp in Iraqi Kurdistan in July 2016. The research project concerned the perception of Europe and Europeans by Arabs and Yazidis, who stayed in the refugee camp. Based on unstructured observations and in-depth interviews, the following images of Europe and Europeans were prominent in refugees’ narratives: a belief in the possibility of quick enrichment in Europe, relaxed relationships between family and friends in Europe, relaxed relations between women and men in Europe and the liberal lifestyle of European women. Based on the gathered data, the author analyses chances of respondents’ integration in Europe. The author focuses on factors conducive to integration and factors that impede integration. This subject has gained particular importance during the recent migration crisis. The arrival of big number of refugees from the Middle East to Europe once again sparked public debates about the possibility for their integration in Europe.

Characteristics of Polish Migration Policy in the Context of the European Refugee Crisis

Migration policy, which until recently was absent in public space, has found its place in public debate and scientific research in recent years. Undoubtedly, the migration policy gained in popularity in 2015, when migrants began to migrate to Europe on a massive scale and the situation of their uncontrolled influx was described as a migration crisis. Although migration is a common phenomenon and has been known for years, increased migratory movements require countries to pursue a well-considered and consistent policy in this area. The situation in Europe has prompted reflection on Polish policy towards foreigners, which at that time, was different from European standards.