Migration is not a new phenomenon. Europe was partly shaped by the cultural, religious and socio-economic diversity that resulted from centuries of migration. Regional conflicts, failing states, globalisation and European integration lead to large and highly diverse migration flows into and within Europe. They lead to deep disagreements between various groups in society. The demarcation between the people (the demos in democracy) and others (foreigners, immigrants) is one of the foundations of the nation-state: without borders, there is no state. However, with increasing international migration, traditional demarcations are under pressure. The people in countries like the Netherlands have long since ceased to be culturally or ethnically homogeneous, and borders are becoming increasingly porous.
Connecting character
This question connects a large number of highly relevant historical and empirical-analytical, evaluative, normative, and design questions with a multi-layered and multidisciplinary character. Sociology, history, law, criminology, ethics, cultural studies and political science work together to answer the following questions: What are trends and what are the nature and cause of migration flows? What is the relationship with European colonialism and imperialism? Under what conditions does the integration of migrants succeed and, conversely, how does exclusion arise? How is the concept of citizenship interpreted formally and informally? How can legislation contribute to dealing properly with migrants and minorities? How can a political and cultural voice be given to those who are not residents of a country, but who live and work there? How should migration flows be valued? What impact do contemporary international migration and cultural diversity have on the resilience and sustainability of societies? How can migration flows be managed? What are morally justifiable and prudent ways of dealing with migration and refugees? What are the rights and duties of national majorities towards minorities. What are the rights and duties of nation states towards refugees and asylum seekers? Who are responsible for the many deaths that occur on their way to the European Union? How can we prevent these deaths?
