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International migration conference to gather 1,350 experts in Girona

The Universitat de Girona will host an international conference on migration featuring over 1,350 experts discussing critical policy impacts.

Nuria Martínez
Nuria Martínez
· 3 min read

The Universitat de Girona will host the 23rd Annual IMISCOE Conference from June 29 to July 2, attracting researchers and activists from around the globe. This event aims to address critical issues surrounding migration policies and their societal impacts.

From June 29 to July 2, Girona will become a hub for migration research as the Universitat de Girona (UdG) hosts the 23rd Annual Conference of the International Migration Research Network (IMISCOE). This prestigious gathering is set to welcome approximately 1,350 participants, including researchers, professionals, activists, and public officials from 75 countries.

Notable speakers highlight diverse perspectives

The conference will feature prominent figures such as Òscar Camps, founder of Open Arms, and Blanca Garcés-Mascareñas from CIDOB. Their insights are expected to enrich discussions on humanitarian efforts and social integration.

Other notable speakers include Shahram Khosravi from Stockholm University and economist Martin Rhus from the European University Institute. A particularly poignant contribution will come from Yousif M. Qasmiyeh, a Palestinian poet born in a refugee camp in Lebanon who now researches at Oxford University.

Focus on migration policies and their societal effects

A central theme of this year’s conference is examining how migration policies affect individuals and society at large. Organizers emphasize that processes of regularization can yield significant benefits; studies suggest that each person regularized could contribute over €4,000 annually in social security contributions.

The conference aims to counteract misconceptions about migration by presenting data-driven discussions that illustrate how inclusive policies can foster positive outcomes for both migrants and host communities.

A call for informed dialogue amidst rising tensions

The vicerrector of Internationalization at UdG, Josep Vila, highlighted the crucial role universities play in addressing migration issues amid growing polarization and xenophobia. He stated that “the simplification of migration narratives often leads to harmful stereotypes.”

“Talking about migration with data helps improve public debate,” said Òscar Prieto-Flores, an organizer of the event.

This sentiment resonates strongly as many nations grapple with rising anti-immigrant sentiments. The historical context reveals that similar conferences have previously paved the way for more humane immigration policies worldwide.

A platform for collaboration and understanding

The IMISCOE Conference not only serves as an academic forum but also fosters collaboration among diverse stakeholders committed to improving conditions for migrants globally. By engaging with communities directly affected by these issues, participants aim to create more cohesive societies.

This gathering represents a vital opportunity for knowledge exchange at a time when informed discourse on migration is desperately needed. As experts convene in Girona next week, they carry with them hopes of shaping future policies that prioritize human dignity over division.

Nuria Martínez

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Nuria Martínez

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