Why They Come: Migration, History, and Europe’s Moral Compass

With the rise of anti-migration sentiments and the political movements associated with them in Europe and America, one question is often asked but rarely deeply answered: “Why do migrants come to Europe, especially Western Europe?

Historical Conscience: Exploitation and Influence

European history is inextricably linked to colonialism and exploitation. For centuries, European countries increased their wealth through the systematic exploitation of other continents. Take, for example, the colonization of Congo by Belgium. King Leopold II treated the country for decades as his personal property, with forced labor as the norm. The exploitation of rubber and ivory led to the deaths of millions of Congolese and left a legacy of poverty and political instability.

The consequences of this past are still felt today. Many countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia have never fully recovered from colonial domination. This is not only due to economic exploitation but also due to political interference. The artificial borders drawn by European powers after decolonization often led to division and conflict, undermining the stability of these regions to this day.

Meanwhile, the West continues to profit. Where once resources like rubber and ivory were exploited, the focus has now shifted to modern technologies. Take the demand for cobalt, essential for electric cars. Congo, which supplies more than 60% of the world’s cobalt, is once again a victim. Miners—often children—work in appalling conditions, while Western countries present themselves as leaders in ‘green energy.’

Oil extraction is another painful example. In the Niger Delta, European and American companies have caused enormous environmental damage, while local communities barely benefit from their own resources. This structural inequality shows how the legacy of colonialism continues to shape today’s global situation.

I know people who want nothing to do with this past and blame these countries for being corrupt, having bad leaders, or—as someone once said—that “they are lazy and just want to profit from our wealth.” But someone who endures extreme suffering and is willing to risk everything, with all the consequences involved, can hardly be called lazy. Moreover, we often ignore the fact that Europe itself profited for centuries from the wealth and labor of other parts of the world—and in some ways, still does. Acknowledging these uncomfortable truths is a necessary step toward doing justice to both the past and the present. The political, economic, and ecological instability in many countries of the Global South is a result of these historical patterns. It is therefore not surprising that many people from these regions migrate to Europe, seeking safety and better opportunities. Migration is not just an isolated phenomenon; it is rooted in a world order created by the West itself.

For a French-speaking African, who often had to learn French as a result of colonial legacy, it makes more sense to migrate to France or Belgium than to a country like South Korea. At the same time, France and Belgium are part of the West and the European Union, giving migrants who arrive in these countries the opportunity to move on to other parts of Europe. These movements highlight the complex and systemic dynamics that shape migration in today’s world.

The Double Standard of Democracy and Freedom

Another important aspect is Europe’s contradictory attitude toward its own values. Democracy, freedom, and equality are often presented as pillars of European identity. But to what extent are these ideals truly upheld?

For instance, Europe readily does business with countries like Saudi Arabia, despite clear human rights violations. Economic interests often take precedence over moral principles. At the same time, strict standards are imposed on migrants and other countries, pointing to a double standard.

This also applies to how Europe handles refugees. The conditions in camps like Moria in Greece are inhumane. While Europe portrays itself as a beacon of freedom, people at its external borders are subjected to policies that contradict the very values it claims to uphold. If Europe truly wants to stand for equality and freedom, it must apply these values consistently—also within its own borders.

A Moral Responsibility

Why do migrants come to Europe? The answer lies in our shared history. The economic wealth and political stability of the West are partly built on the exploitation of other regions. Migration is not an isolated issue, but a reflection of this interconnectedness.

Europe has the responsibility to confront its past and acknowledge its consequences. It must also be consistent in upholding its own values. Freedom, equality, and justice must not be empty slogans. This requires that newcomers be granted the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, and that they are not portrayed by populist propaganda machines as scapegoats for domestic problems.

These problems are often caused more by poor and unjust policies than by refugees or migrants. Only in this way can Europe remain true to the ideals it proclaims. Migration is a reminder of our shared history and the responsibility that comes with it. It is a call for Europe to recalibrate its moral compass and pursue justice—not only in words but also in actions. Only then can Europe truly live up to the values it so proudly upholds.