The Unintended Effects of Enforcement: Smuggling Gangs Adapt to Changing Circumstances The British government's efforts to stem the flow of migrants crossing the English Channel have taken an unexpected turn.
Rather than a reduction in smuggling operations, the decline in small boat crossings has led to a surge in cooperation between rival gangs as they adapt to changing circumstances.
In recent months, the number of migrants attempting to cross the Channel in small boats has plummeted, with estimates suggesting 2023 may be the lowest year since 2016.