Even when working in concert, EU governments cannot control irregular immigration. For some time now they have therefore been co-opting third countries, transport firms and employers into their efforts. Yet, the sticks and carrots they offer their reluctant helpers have not sufficed, and implementation has been poor. A new approach is emerging, based on an overlap of interests between the EU and these actors. The EU is seeking to rebuild its current relations with third countries and other actors as »partnerships«. It's a fine idea, but at present a failure.