The power switch in bilateral return migration management: the case of Norway and Ethiopia

Why is it so exceedingly difficult for host states to return irregular migrants to their countries of origin? Emphasizing the importance of including the viewpoints of both origin and destination countries, this article argues that there is a ‘power switch’ in the politicized practice of returning migrants from North to South: whereas immigration spells power and control on the destination side, in return processes, the command is reversed, with the Southern state functioning as gatekeeper. Based on interviews with Norwegian, Ethiopian and EU officials placed in Ethiopia, this article focuses on the bilateral return migration corridor between Norway and Ethiopia. Referencing the emerging constructivist strand of international relations studies of migration, we map and analyze the interplay and effects of converging and diverging interests and norms at the local, national, and international levels. The study reveals that while certain norms constrain the deportation of failed asylum seekers and migrants in both countries, there are several conflicting interests and norms between Norway and Ethiopia regarding return. Norway actively promotes return to protect its asylum regime and social welfare system, while Ethiopia benefits from diaspora remittances, seeks to avoid criticism from politically important diaspora communities and stresses national norms of state sovereignty.