What if the detention center closes? Unintended consequences of an economic crisis

• In Event: Criminal Justice Policy Issues

Abstract

Detention centers system is a crucial element for undocumented migration control mechanisms in Italy. Public discourses have always been harsh against irregular migration: from the very beginning undocumented migrants have been turned into enemies, to such an extent that their detention appeared justified to public opinion. Yet, discrepancy is always between the rhetoric and the practices at street-level, and the current economic crisis may be the opportunity to shed light on the topic. Important changes are indeed coming with the economic crisis: some detention centers are closing (mainly because of lack of fund) and public discourses on migration seems to soften. In this paper, a case study will be proposed of the detention center in Bologna (Italy), which was temporary closed in 2013, due to poor conditions of detention. The consequences of this for the street level undocumented migration control will be inquired: all the files of undocumented migrants to be detained and then deported will be analysed over the 2012-2013 period and a comparison will be carried out between police practices and their validation by minor judges before its closure and during it. Final goal is to challenge detention centres real usefulness and highlight the role of the symbolic.

Author

• Giulia Fabini, University of Milan