to examine key aspects of the situation of irregular immigrants in the European Union, in order to assess the extent to which their fundamental rights are respected and protected. Irregular migrants have no legal status and are therefore most vulnerable to exploitation and discrimination in key areas of social life. They are affected by formal barriers to the enjoyment and exercise of rights. More often, however, it is practical obstacles which discourage irregular immigrants to approach public service providers or courts for fear of being identified as irregular and consequently removed from the territory. This results, for instance, in persons in need of urgent medical treatment not seeking health care or victims of serious violations not seeking justice.