Show Notes
Across Europe, migration is increasingly becoming a source of geopolitical tension and in some cases: a tool of state power.
In recent weeks, Europe’s borders have produced extraordinary scenes: around 72,000 people crossed from Morocco illegally into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, while a record 230 people reached Britain in a single inflatable boat.
Meanwhile, tunnels have been discovered beneath the borders between Belarus and its EU neighbours, amid accusations that Russia and its allies are exploiting migration as part of a wider hybrid strategy.
But how much of this is deliberate and how much is simply the result of conflict, economic pressure, criminal smuggling networks and misinformation?
Bianca Nobilo is joined by historian Peter Frankopan to dissect how migration is being used as a weapon in Europe.
(00:00:00) Ceuta, Russia and migration as a weapon (00:02:17) An unprecedented era? - with Peter Frankopan (00:04:02) Migration as a tool - what history tells us (00:05:53) How unique is what's happening today? (00:09:12) When do attitudes start to change? (00:12:30) Age of information (00:15:22) Why Ceuta? History and geography combine (00:18:42) Attempts to destabilise Europe? (00:21:31) Are liberal democracies more vulnerable? (00:23:42) Key lessons from history Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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