16/06/2016: Migration seminar “Prejudice and the Securitization of Migration as Global Security Threats” by V. Bello

Prejudice and the Securitization of Migration as Global Security Threats

by Dr. Valeria Bello (UNU-GCM)

MGSoG/UNU-MERIT Migration Seminar in collaboration with Maastricht Centre for Citizenship, Migration and Development (MACIMIDE)

Abstract

International Migration has become a security concern in current times. Changes that have occurred in the international system from the end of the Cold War have entailed increased mobility across the globe, instability in particular sensitive regions and consequent conflicts across the world. This has involved both more insecurity in various regions of the world and rises in international migration. Through evidence from data on international migration and other macro-economic variables, the changes in the International System and in the Welfare State System in Europe will be connected to the development of societal insecurity and questions and complaints concerning migrants as perceived threats in host societies.  This complex situation has increasingly contributed to the securitization of migration. However, the securitization of migration itself also plays a crucial role in increasing prejudiced attitudes towards migrants. While the exclusion from life opportunities – for both newcomers and the established – can develop into sources of different types of extremism, for instance far-right violent groups and terrorist groups, which, ultimately, mutually reinforce each other.

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