OAMI 2120 - The Migration and Development Nexus: Concepts, Debates and Research Insights

How does international migration shape and is shaped by processes of transformation in lower- and middle-income countries?

This course explores the complex relationship between international migration and so-called “development processes” in sending societies. It examines key dynamics such as the impact of remittances, issues of brain drain/gain, the governance of migration by sending states, the role of the European Union, and the influence of diasporas on elections and welfare systems here and there.

Drawing primarily on the research of the instructor and guest scholars, the course emphasizes active participation and critical discussion. Students are invited to approach the migration–development nexus from a multidisciplinary perspective, engaging with insights from Political Science, International Relations, Sociology, and Anthropology.

Learning Outcomes

• Identify and discuss the impact of migration on sending societies
• Find and use relevant scientific evidence in migration debates
• Communicate concisely on complex migration issues with the right concepts

Professional Skills

Research & Analysis, Oral communication, Critical thinking, Capacity to identify key messages from scientific publications for professional use

None

Feedback will be provided:

-on the individual reading presentation (orally on the day of the presentation)

-on the midterm (via e-mail in the days that follow the exam)

-on an extended synopsis of the group presentation (in class on week 4)

-on the group presentation (in class on week 6)

• Active participation during lectures 10%
• Individual Presentation of one course reading during the semester 20%
• Midterm exam 40%
• Final group presentation 30%

• In Class Presence: 24 hours a semester
• Reading and Preparation for Class: 60 hours a semester
• Research and Preparation for Group Work: 30 hours a semester
• Research and Writing for Individual Assessments: 30 hours a semester