Hein de Haas, a Professor focused on migration and development, debunks myths about migration in a nuanced approach. Topics include labor demand, economic opportunities, impact of immigrants, and the misconception of climate change-driven global migration. The podcast explores complexities in migration studies and public discourse, addressing challenges in communication and historical context.
Migration impacts are multifaceted, affecting origin and destination countries in diverse ways.
Viewing migration as a divisive issue hampers understanding of its nuanced economic and cultural implications.
Deep dives
Inspiration for Studying Migration
Professor Heinder Hass became interested in studying migration after a trip to Morocco at 17, where he encountered migrants from various countries residing there. His fascination with the impacts of migration on origin countries led him to pursue further research in this field, initially focusing on environmental changes and agriculture.
Challenges in Research Dissemination
Academic research in migration studies struggles to reach the public and policymakers due to the emphasis on publishing in academic journals, which may not be accessible to a broader audience. The polarized nature of the migration debate, divided into pro and anti-migration stances, also limits the acceptance of nuanced academic findings that do not align with prevailing political narratives.
Polarizing Perspectives on Migration
Migration is a polarizing issue fueled by perceptions of cultural change and economic impact. On one side, migration is viewed as a problem leading to job loss, wage suppression, and strain on public services. Conversely, there is a perspective valuing migrants as essential for filling labor shortages, driving innovation, and sustaining economic growth.
Rethinking the Migration Debate
The podcast highlights the need to shift from viewing migration as a polarized debate to understanding it as a fundamental aspect of human societies. Comparing taking sides on migration to taking positions on the economy or the environment, the emphasis is on accepting migration as a complex, inevitable facet of societal dynamics.
Immigration is probably the most divisive and heated subject in British politics today and the same is true in many other countries, including the Netherlands - where our guest on this episode, Hein de Haas, is a Professor focused on migration and development. His new book How Migration Really Works is an eye-opener for anyone seeking an understanding of why people immigrate and what it means for their origin countries and destination countries. Neither left-wing or right-wing, the book illuminates what's really at stake when we open or close our borders.
If you enjoy the episode, pick up a copy from our bookshop and help support our local independent bookseller, Primrose Hill Books.