One could argue that the same cannot be said for forced returns or voluntary returns out of detention facilities. In fact, using detention as means of extracting consent to return, can be counter-productive for the sustainability of return; a migrant who 'consents' in order to escape detention is more likely to return, compared to someone who took a conscious decision, without the pressure of incarceration. Nonetheless, the policy is too recent to draw concrete conclusions regarding sustainability. In line with this reasoning, cost-effectiveness would require that distribution prioritizes voluntary returns. Between 2008 and 2013, Greece received almost 130 million euros under the Return Fund. However, only 50% of this allocation was earmarked for the implementation of actual returns, as 32% was consumed in detention facilities. Earlier annual programs focused mostly on forced returns, while in later years allocation to both voluntary and forced returns was almost equal. Finally, cost-effectiveness would also require that efforts concentrate on migrants for whom return is a feasible option, in view of the situation in the country of origin. In this sense, it can be misleading to review the cost-effectiveness of Greece's voluntary return policy only in absolute numbers. Policy Recommendations 1. Distribution of funding towards voluntary returns: There is space for further allocation of funding in the context of voluntary returns. If the authorities reduce detention places, and instead increase the budget of voluntary and assisted voluntary returns, they may achieve more cost-effective results. In light of the Greek crisis and the difficulty in finding employment in Greece, economic migrants may be more willing to make use of this option. 2. Expansion of return counseling programs: Information about return programs should be widely disseminated. Studies show that specific categories of persons (e.g. Families with children) are more likely to agree to return to their home countries, if properly informed of the option. 3. Expansion of assisted voluntary return programs: The data provided by IOM demonstrate that voluntary return programs are particularly successful among nationalities with an economic profile and relatively safe conditions in their home country. It would therefore be more effective to expand programs of assisted voluntary returns towards categories of migrants who enter Greece for pure economic reasons and expand the reintegration schemes. 4. Seasonal work agreements: The Greek authorities may consider not only the option of bilateral agreements to secure the readmission, but also bilateral agreements of seasonal work. The idea then would be that these workers maintain residence in the third country but come every year for work. In fact the EU is moving into this direction with the preparation of a Page 59