ABOUT

The BLOODY BORDERS project is an initiative aimed at shedding light on the illegal pushbacks and violence that people on the move experience at Europe’s borders, with the ultimate goal of raising awareness, claiming responsibilities, and transforming the current border regime into one that prioritizes humane policies, safe migration pathways, and robust legal protections.

(just give us 60 seconds to share some background concepts…)

Over the last decade, migration patterns have changed significantly due to various factors, including armed conflicts, economic instability, and the alarming level of securitization implemented by national and European authorities. As individuals and families flee their homes in search of safety and better opportunities, they often encounter racism, discrimination, and cruelty. While many governments adopt a deterrence approach, implementing aggressive measures to prevent entry, human rights activists monitor and report these abuses. These violations are particularly evident in the practice of pushbacks.

The Nature of Pushbacks and Internal Violence

Pushbacks are defined as the forcible return of individuals immediately after they cross a border, without proper legal processes or consideration of their needs. Such actions violate international law, particularly the right to asylum and the principle of non-refoulement, which protects individuals from being returned to countries where they may face danger. Pushbacks are systematically violent, involving physical and psychological abuse, theft or destruction of personal belongings, and denial of legal aid and translation services.

In addition to pushbacks, people on the move frequently experience internal violence, which encompasses various forms of mistreatment, including police brutality, evictions, and inhumane living conditions. Internal violence often occurs not just at borders but also within transit or host countries, contributing to a broader regime of terror aimed at deterring movement.

Methodology of Reporting

The BLOODY BORDERS project employs a thorough methodology to document this violence, focusing on the collection of qualitative data to provide detailed accounts of individual experiences. Each report reflects the perspective of a single person, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected.

To facilitate comprehensive documentation, the project adheres to the following “4 Ws” framework:

  • When: Details about when the individual or group was apprehended, when they left their previous residence, and when they were taken to other locations.
  • Where: Information about the locations of apprehension and subsequent detentions.
  • Who: Descriptions of the authorities involved, identified through details about uniforms, vehicles, and languages spoken. The project provides interviewees with the tools to identify these forces without making direct attributions.
  • What: Accounts of violence, both physical and psychological, including instances of administrative violence, such as falsified documents or degrading language.

Ethics, Privacy, and Consent

All testimonies are collected anonymously, ensuring that no identifying information or photographs are used. Informed consent is obtained prior to interviews, allowing respondents to understand how their testimonies will be used and to decide if they wish to participate. This process mitigates the risk of re-traumatization and empowers individuals, ensuring they feel a sense of agency and control as active participants in the reporting process.

The interviewers are trained to recognize and validate the emotional reactions of respondents, fostering an environment where individuals can safely share their experiences, minimizing the risk of re-traumatization. This supportive approach encourages individuals to recount their experiences with the hope that their stories will contribute to a broader movement for justice and accountability in the treatment of people on the move.

Join and Lend a Hand!

The BLOODY BORDERS project is more than just a documentation effort; it is a call to action for individuals and organizations to stand against the injustices faced by people on the move. While the project has been launched by activists of No Name Kitchen, it is a no-logo, open-source initiative.

Anyone who has experienced a pushback, or knows someone who has, is welcome to submit their testimonies and join the fight, supporting those whose voices have been silenced and advocating for systemic change. Each experience is invaluable in building a comprehensive understanding of the realities of the European border regime and the violence that often accompanies it. Every story shared contributes to a collective narrative that can drive change.

The involvement of activists, researchers, journalists, and individuals interested in remote advocacy, field research, or awareness campaigns can make a significant difference. If you are interested in contributing or want more information about the project, please reach out to us at info@bloodyborders.org