In recent decades, all European countries have been affected by migration—whether as destination, transit, or countries of origin. Historically, migration has significantly influenced ethnic diversity in European countries, and given the increasing immigrant population, Europe can rightfully be called an immigrant continent. Therefore, migration management, whether dealing with unplanned immigration and emigration or planned movements, remains a crucial issue at both the policy level and within broader societal discussions.
While the most economically developed countries attract labor migrants and those with strong welfare systems become destinations for asylum seekers, peripheral European/EU countries have primarily served as transit zones for irregular migrants. Only recently have these countries begun to emerge as destinations for labor and other migrant categories. Migration management at the borders of empires, kingdoms, economic, and political unions has always been important—both formally and symbolically. As in the past, today, the countries on the periphery of Europe/the European Union continue to play the role of border guardians, protecting “Fortress Europe” from unwanted migration, particularly during periods of increased movement due to wars, natural disasters, and political instability.
The main challenge in ensuring the “proper management of Schengen and external borders” appears to be balancing two aspects:
- Human rights, by upholding human rights standards at borders, and
- Security, by protecting national borders from irregular migration.
Conference Objectives
The conference aims to facilitate presentations and discussions among scholars from various fields, examining different aspects of migration in European countries—particularly in Southeast Europe—from both historical and contemporary perspectives. The event will critically assess the effectiveness of European migration, asylum, and integration policies and explore societal changes resulting from migration processes.
Suggested Topics
Migration, asylum, and integration policies
Migration and historical experiences
Migration and the COVID-19 pandemic
Refugee migration
Labor migration
Emigration from Southeast European countries
Immigration to Southeast European countries
Migration and religion
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