Migration, Integration and Ethnic Relations

During this course, we discuss social scientific theories and empirical research on international migration, the socio-economic and cultural integration of immigrants and their children, and reactions of the host society. Migration has made European countries ethnically and culturally more diverse. While migrants try to find their way in a new and sometimes hostile environment, host populations also have to adapt to migrants and the new religious and cultural diversity they bring with them. Migrants and host populations face the challenge of acceptance and adaptation in spite of initial resistance, possible social exclusion and explicit political rejection by part of the host population. We discuss scientific theories and empirical research on international migration, the socio-economic and cultural integration of immigrants and their children, and reactions of the host society. Throughout, we use an interdisciplinary and analytical approach, drawing on theories and empirical research from sociology, psychology, political science, demography and economics, among others. The two-week course covers a broad range of topics related to migration, integration and ethnic relations, such as reasons for international migration, modes of immigrant adaptation and acculturation, national and ethnic identity, religion, stereotyping, discrimination, inequality, and inter-ethnic contacts.

Course leader

Dr. Tobias Stark & Dr. Anouk Smeekes

Target group

Advanced bachelor and master-level students

Course aim

This course provides participants with a thorough knowledge of the current academic, societal and policy debates related to migration, integration and intergroup relations. Students acquire an overview of the main research questions, theories, and current empirical findings in the field of international migration, integration, and ethnic relations. They will be able to critically evaluate empirical research and critically reflect on current trends and debates on migration, integration and ethnic relations.