Perspectives from the global south and diaspora communities
Migration discourses in the Global North typically emphasize themes such as security, economic impacts, and cultural assimilation. These narratives, heavily influenced by Global North interests, often overshadow the humanitarian, developmental, and historical dimensions of migration originating from the Global South. The research underscores the importance of integrating these Southern perspectives to foster a comprehensive understanding of global migration dynamics and to develop more effective, humane, and equitable migration policies.
Authors: Arjen Leerkes (EUR), Nino Tartarashvili (EUR), Lisa Pfister (SH), Juliette Samman (SH), Gul Ince Beco (UMIL) and Leo Daly (EUR)
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Key findings reveal that different diaspora and Global South discourses exist on (irregular) migration and enforced return. These include humanitarian discourses, migration and development discourses, post-colonial discourses, securitization discourses, and civic discourses. Global South are deeply embedded in local contexts, often viewing migration as a necessity driven by poverty, conflict, and lack of opportunities. These narratives contrast to some extent with those in the diaspora, where a blend of host country and home country perspectives creates unique hybrid narratives. Various discourses identified also do not seem to differ fundamentally from dominant Global North discourses, highlighting the hegemonial nature of dominant discourses. However, in the Global South countries and diaspora communities selected, securitization discourses seem less salient than in the Global North and internationally, while migration and development and, less so, post-colonial discourses are arguably more central.
The study also explores the roles of social media and traditional media in shaping and disseminating these discourses, offering a nuanced understanding of the strategies migrants use to resist and navigate enforced return policies. The findings contribute to a more inclusive migration policy framework that recognizes and respects the rights and dignity of all migrants, while also addressing perceived security concerns and economic benefits associated with migration.