InEurope

Challenge

The increase in migration has resulted in less European cooperation and stronger border control arrangements. As we pursue a security policy to overcome our fears, we are locking ourselves into « Fortress Europe ». It is not a question of solving the « migration » crisis but the crisis of our borders and solidarity. Rather than « welcoming » asylum seekers through deterrence and misinformation, let us offer them support that is in line with international conventions.

“Mitja Behnke has designed a clearly demarcated and elegant information resource for asylum seekers that is also a welcoming beacon at an often anxiety-inducing border control.”

– Matilda McQuaid (Deputy Curatorial Director at Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum)

Solution

Set up by the European Union, and adapted by national governments, InEurope is a reception, support and orientation system for asylum seekers at European borders. Deployed at legal entrances to European territory (airports, train stations, harbors, etc.), this site is intended to anticipate successful integration while being part of a European policy based on solidarity.

“During the pandemic, the refugee crisis of the past few years has merely paused and will certainly resume when travel becomes easier. By paying attention to immigration processes at European airports, Mitja Behnke has found a way to be respectful to both border control authorities and asylum seekers.”

– Avinash Rajagopal (chief-editor at Metropolis Magazine)

This project is a reflection and a manifesto on a policy of solidarity borders.