The MiReKoc International Summer School of 2014 entitled, “International Migration in the Post-Soviet Space: Reflections, Patterns and Implications” aimed to bring together different theoretical and empirical debates on the Post-Soviet international migration nexus. The program focused on migration related patterns and implications from various parts of the former Soviet countries including the Baltic, Eastern European, Caucasian and Central Asian countries. The Russian Federation was be placed at the center of the debate. According to UN statistics, Russia has the second largest foreign migrant populace after the United States. The perspectives of receiving countries/communities were examined and applied to the specific questions of migration patterns, demography, socioeconomic conditions and larger integration issues for the Post-Soviet context. The position of sending countries/communities were discussed through the relationship between international migration and development. The lectures during this summer program did not only reflect the conventional debates specific to the region, but the different case dynamics also contributed to wider migration patterns and issues. In this summer program, we used an interdisciplinary approach combined with research findings through different methodologies that were reflected in the lectures and provided participants with a dynamic, and multi-dimensional understanding that will be used for scholarly purposes and policy-making processes.
The MiReKoc International Summer School of 2014 consisted of two weeks of lectures and discussions led by a distinguished international faculty, combined with field trips within Istanbul that involve seminars led by NGO representatives. This program was designed for PhD and graduate students as well as junior experts in the field. Applications from all over the world were encouraged. However, this year only partial scholarships were available for the candidates. The fee for the program was 1500 Euros and will cover lectures, course materials, field trips, food, and accommodation. There was not a specific form for scholarship applications, all applicants were considered for the scholarships. The summer school seminars and readings were both conducted in English. A certificate was provided upon successful completion of the program. Additional requirements were imposed on those participants who are seeking course credits.
In 2015, we are again aiming at recruiting participants from such a diverse background, and offer scholarships.