And it’s all really about: _EXCLUSION_ Between 2023 and 2024, Schengen states collected US$906 million annually in visa fees, with US$145 million coming from rejected applications—nearly half, US$67.5 million, from African countries. Millions continue to pay high, non-refundable fees chasing a dream that Europe offers more opportunity and dignity. But the system isn’t neutral—it’s gatekeeping. Visa decisions are opaque, often lacking explanation or accountability. The poorer the country, the higher the rejection rate. This creates a form of "reverse remittances" that exemplifies how wealthy nations profit from exclusionary practices. #pushafrican #immigration #visas #mudsidenotes