Conclusion

By synthesizing the preceding case studies this chapter discusses the main contours of the variegated landscape of refugee reception in Europe in the wake of the 2015 “refugee crisis”. Following this inventory we aim to gain an appreciation of the many knowledge gaps that still remain. What are the empirical wholes that could be meaningfully filled, and what are the theoretical challenges? We suggest that much can still be learned from studying local refugee governance, not only by comparing local experiences and outcomes but also by using the local lens to look up to higher levels of governance and thus better understand vertical relationships. Lastly, we also address some policy implications and, among other things, argue that by means of “experimentalist governance” the local level could gain in importance within the Common European Asylum System making it more robust and effective.