The externalization of asylum, i.e. the outsourcing of asylum procedures and refugee protection to other countries, remains a highly topical and extremely critical area. Many western states continue to pursue and expand such practices, raising serious legal, political, and ethical questions.

In Summer 2024, Christiane Fröhlich and Ulrike Krause initiated „Externalizing Asylum. A Compendium of Scientific Knowledge“ with the aim of providing an accessible, evidence-based resource. The compendium currently brings together around 60 critical contributions by scholars from around the world addressing diverse legal, political, conceptual, ethical, and further challenges posed by externalization policies. By offering scientifically grounded analyses, the compendium seeks to inform public debate and promote more humane approaches to asylum.

Given the ongoing relevance of this work, the compendium will be handed over to the Refugee Law Initiative (RLI, University of London) to ensure its continued development and reach. It will be co-led by Prof. Mariana Gkliati and Dr. Christiane Fröhlich, alongside further colleagues from the Refugee Law Initiative. This post will be updated as the transition progresses.

The compendium remains accessible at https://externalizingasylum.info/