Migration Issues
Migration seems to be the most important political and societal issue of the past 30 years. A record number of asylum applications in Europe; first, second, and third generation migrant groups from various backgrounds; the free movement of workers and self-employed individuals within the European Union; the presence of expats in major cities.
Ministers struggle with it, governments and the EU propose new plans to manage and limit migration within the EU. At the same time, the demographic composition in many European countries is changing rapidly. New population groups introduce new issues, become part of this changing society, and begin to emancipate. The migration and multicultural society is a reality and has consequences for coexistence. How to live together in this rapidly changing hyper-diverse society, and how to deal with migration in the coming decades? The various opinions, facts, and research reports on this reality are piling up. The public and political debates are polarized: while some see opportunities in migration, others view newcomers as a threat. The complexity and multifaceted nature of the issue is evident in the reception of asylum seekers, the arrival of war refugees from Ukraine, labor migration from Eastern Europe, the issue of undocumented people in European cities, and also the housing shortage and scarcity of labor supply.
Who are these migrants and what are their motivations? How does society respond to these newcomers? What is expected of them, for example, in terms of integration? In this minor, you will search for answers to these and other questions. You will look at facts, opinions, and debates surrounding migration with a sociological, legal, political, and research-oriented perspective. After completing the minor, you will be able to take a well-considered position in the debate about the migration society.
Admission requirements
- English level B2 in reading, writing, and speaking
- 60 ECTS from your first year of bachelor studies
- A strong interest in migration issues
Learning outcomes / Competencies
The minor provides a broad perspective on migration. It addresses and explores historical, legal, and sociological factors and issues. You will develop well-substantiated views on migration and cultivate a critical perspective, enabling you to understand the significance of migration within the context of your own professional field.
Preliminary outline (30 ECTS)
- Introduction to Migration
- International Law and Legal Aspects
- Political and Sociological Issues
- The Multicultural Society
- Personal Essay on Migration Issues
- Organizing Seminar
Teaching methods and assessment
The minor combines academic and practice-oriented learning activities. In addition to contact hours, students study literature and complete individual and group assignments. Teaching methods include lectures, guest lectures, seminars, and weekly practice-based assignments.
Students take part in the introduction programme, lectures and guest lectures, seminars, consultations, and practice assignments. The minor concludes with a student-organized symposium.
Since guest speakers are regularly involved, class times may vary depending on their availability. The timetable has been designed to take this into account as much as possible.
Assessment may take different forms, including (but not limited to):
- a knowledge test
- an essay
- the organization of a symposium
For inquiries, email: m.j.hofman@hva.nl