300196 Dissent over Migration and Refugee Movements (LEH) (WiSe 2018/2019)

In this research training (Lehrforschung) we analyse how core European values and norms are contested, re-framed and re-affirmed by conflicting positions on migration refugee questions. Across Europe, discussions have taken center stage on admitting forced migrants and their integration into national and local entities. A series of intensively debated policy measures taken to prevent forced migrants from applying for asylum in Europe have stood at the center of attention. One of the main dividing lines in public controversies has been between solidarity with refugees vs. protection of cultural homogeneity in the countries of reception. There have been views expressing civic solidarity as European citizens have welcomed refugees. By contrast, there have been law and order positions and also right-wing populist which have challenged incumbent political parties and governments. These processes have been accompanied by debates over the fear of social downward mobility and the fallout of neo-liberal policies on social inequalities and cultural identities. This situation highlights debates over core European and constitutional values and institutions. The controversial discussions have equally concerned norms embedded in international law and national constitutions, such as the responsibility to protect refugees.
This research training addresses the dissent over values, norms, and institutions, sparked by refugee issues. Various approaches can be applied, such as ethnographic field research, survey analysis, and specific methods to dissect controversial debates.

Die Kommunikationssprache in dieser Veranstaltung ist Englisch. Schriftliche Leistungen in anderen Sprachen sind möglich (u.a. Deutsch, Französisch).

Bibliography

Recommended Reading: Alan Bryman, 2015. Social Research Methods. Fifth Edition. Oxford University Press