Call for abstracts: Session on Migrant transnationalism and development: The role of economic and social remittances (International Geographical Congress)

January 13, 2024 · by · in Call for papers, Conferences

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS
Migrant transnationalism and development: The role of economic and social remittances
Organized by Birgit Glorius (TU Chemnitz)

The International Geographical Congress (IGC) which will be held in Ireland from 24-30 August 2024. Birgit Glorius (TU Chemnitz) is organizing a session on ‘Migrant transnationalism and development: The role of economic and social remittances’. If you are interested in joining the session, please submit your abstracts by 18 January at the conference website: https://igc2024dublin.org/call-for-abstracts/

Session Abstract
As scholarly work on migrant transnationalism has shown, transnationalism underscores the dynamic nature of modern society, highlighting how people and ideas move across borders, influence each other, and reshape traditional notions of identity, culture, and belonging. It represents a shift towards an interconnected and interdependent global reality. One core aspect of scholarly work on transnationalism has been its impact on economic and social development in the countries touched by transnational livelihoods. The session seeks to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of how migrants’ economic contributions, through remittances, influence the development trajectories of both origin and destination countries. Furthermore, it will explore the often overlooked but equally important aspect of social remittances – ideas, practices, values – and their impact on social change, cultural diffusion, and development outcomes. As transnationalism is deeply embedded in the daily routines and life projects of migrant families, the session also aims to explore longitudinal perspectives on transnationalism and development.

Key points of discussion within this session, promoted by the Globility Commission, will include

  • Key concepts of transnationalism and development and their application and applicability regarding types of mobility, types of regions, and socio-economic and political contexts, and throughout migration history.
  • The quantitative and qualitative dimensions of economic remittances and their effects on poverty reduction, investment, and financial stability in home countries.
  • The role of social remittances in driving social and cultural transformations, influencing gender dynamics, and fostering knowledge diffusion.
  • Policies and interventions that can enhance the positive impacts of remittances on development, including financial inclusion and diaspora engagement.