Understanding the dynamics of the illiberal practices of liberal states is increasingly important in Europe today. This book examines the changing relationship between immigration, citizenship and integration at the European and national arenas. It studies some of the main effects and questions the comprehensiveness of the exchange and coordination of public responses to the inclusion of third country nationals in Europe, as well as their compatibility with a common European immigration policy driven by a rights-based approach and the respect of the principles of fair and equal treatment of third country nationals. The volume reviews key national experiences of immigration and citizenship laws, the use of integration and the 'moving of ideas' between national arenas. The framing of integration in immigration and citizenship law and the ways in which policy convergence is being achieved through the EU framework on integration raises a number of conceptual dilemmas and a set of definitional premises in need of reflection and consideration.

Rated as 'Research Essential' by Baker & Taylor 'There are two contrasting approaches to the integration of migrants in the European Union: for EU citizens it is achieved through freedom of movement and a privileged legal position, while third country nationals now often have to pass integration tests for family reunion, permanent residence and naturalisation. Illiberal Liberal States provides the most comprehensive analysis and critique of this contradictory approach so far. This timely book deserves to be read widely by academic researchers and policy-makers.' Rainer Bauböck, European University Institute, Florence, Italy 'This book contains a wealth of useful, up-to-date information for legal experts and academics.' Journal of Contemporary European Studies '...the editors are to be applauded for bringing together not only such an excellent group of scholars but also for bringing all contributions together in a very well-focused and extensive study of an important new policy trend in the field of immigration and citizenship.' Acta Politica

Elspeth Guild is based at the Centre for European Policy Studies, Belgium. Kees Groenendijk is based at Radboud University of Nijmegen, The Netherlands. Sergio Carrera is based at the Centre for European Policy Studies, Belgium.