D3.2 Policy Brief: Beyond the Signature: Negotiating Legitimate Return Cooperation

Intergovernmental Return Frameworks (IRFs) have become an important instrument for the return and readmission cooperation between EU+ countries and non-EU countries. While some negotiations lead to conclude an IRF relatively quickly, others take years or remain unresolved. These differences raise questions about success and effectiveness of negotiation processes. Alongside the conditions shaping the conclusion of IRFs, it is also important to assess the legitimacy of their negotiation processes and outcomes. This policy brief argues that the success of return diplomacy should be assessed by considering both the conclusion and legitimacy of IRFs, as the factors shaping these outcomes are closely interconnected.