The Hotspot Paradox: A Fragmented Responsibility-sharing.

Is the EU becoming more united or more fragmented while implementing the hotspot approach? To answer this question this paper tries to analyse the hotspot model, which was introduced with the European Agenda on Migration as an immediate response to manage irregular migration and provide operational support to the frontline countries in a spirit of solidarity. After referring to the context within which it was created and the framework within which it functions, this paper explores its implementation in Italy and Greece. Drawing from these hotspot operations, various political, legal, organisational, ethical and practical considerations emerge that question not only the efficiency of this ad hoc measure but also its actual ability to strengthen EU solidarity. In this context, this paper argues that the hotspot approach as a policy measure provokes fragmentation and therefore disunity among the EU Member States, signalising a policy paradox. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]