The Political Economy of International Migration:

Labour, Markets and Development

16-28 June 2013

The MiReKoc International Summer School of 2013 entitled, “The Political Economy of International Migration: Labour, Markets, and Development” aimed at bringing together different theoretical and empirical debates on the economy-international migration nexus, which focused on the perspectives of three main actors of international migration: the migrants, receiving countries/communities, and sending countries/communities. The insight of migrant-centred perspectives were elaborated within the context of labour market integration and migrant rights. The perspectives of receiving countries/communities were examined and applied to the specific questions of labour demand, demography, and larger integration issues. The position of sending countries/communities were discussed through the relationship between international migration and development. The lectures in the School did not only reflect the conventional debates in the field, but they also highlighted the critical perspectives over the related debates. An interdisciplinary approach at the School was combined with research findings through different methodologies to reflect in the lectures, and provided the participants a dynamic and multi-dimensional knowledge that will be used both for scholarly and policy-making purposes.

Two weeks of lectures and discussions given and led by a distinguished international faculty were also also combined with field trips within Istanbul involving seminars given by NGO representatives. The programme was designed for PhD and graduate students as well as junior experts in the field. While applications from all over the world was encouraged, this year only partial scholarships were available for the candidates. The fee for the programme was 1500 Euros covering lectures, course materials, field trips, food, and accommodation. There was not a specific form for scholarship applications, all applicants were evaluated for the scholarships. The summer school was conducted in English; readings were also in English. A certificate was provided upon successful completion of the program. Additional requirements were imposed on those participants who were seeking course credits.