Migrant Smuggling Data and Research: A global review of the emerging evidence base (Volume 2) presents a unique review of what is being collected and what can be done to further build the evidence base on migrant smuggling globally. The second volume on the topic, and building on the 2016 report, Volume 2 is again the result of a collaboration between the International Organization for Migration and researchers from a range of backgrounds and academic disciplines, and supported by the Government of Turkey. 



The report shows that important research has been undertaken on the transnational crime aspects of migrant smuggling, including on routes, smuggling organization (such as criminal networking and facilitation), smuggler profiles and fees/payment. Likewise, there is an emerging academic literature on migrant smuggling, particularly the economic and social processes involved in smuggling, which has largely been based on small-scale qualitative research, mostly undertaken by early-career researchers. Contributions from private research companies, as well as investigative journalists, have provided useful insights in some regions, helping to shed light on smuggling practices. The report confirms key findings of Volume 1, making recommendations in three priority areas:

1. Strengthening research and analysis partnerships;
2. Supporting capacity-building; and
3. Focusing on emerging and priority topics.