The purpose of this phase is to examine the distinction between legal principles and practical policies. This dimension includes in-depth empirical work consisting of a combination of interviews with families, and observation work through organisations representing migrant families, in order to understand their role as policy makers and their campaign activities. A number of interviews will be held with key informants, case-workers and solicitors in the UK and Italy to identify a sample of international families who have undergone some form of breakdown. At least 10 international families will be interviewed in each country. A longitudinal approach has been chosen given the complexity and pace of developments in families.
Empirical work is in progress.