The Migration and Human Rights Nest at the College of Europe in Natolin was pleased to organise a discussion titled: "New Trends in Global Migration: US-Mexico Border and South Asian Migration to Poland" with distinguished professionals Mr Patryk KUGIEL and Ms Jennifer BABAIE.
Migration patterns are in constant flux, shaped by shifting political landscapes, economic changes, and evolving social dynamics. In this complex environment, understanding new migratory trends and their implications for human rights is essential.
During the session, the speakers explored two significant case studies that shed light on the diversity and complexity of migration today:
- US-Mexico Border: The Role of Race, Colonialism, and Domestic Politics in the U.S. Efforts to Externalize Land Borders
- South Asian Migration to Poland
Through these comparative perspectives, participants gained a deeper understanding of how global and local factors intersect to influence migration flows and policy responses.
The lecture concluded with an engaging Q&A session, offering students the opportunity to exchange ideas with the speakers and reflect on the broader implications of current migration trends.
About the speakers:
Mr Patryk KUGIEL is an Analyst for the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM) in the Asia-Pacific Programme. His research focuses on South Asia (mainly India, Pakistan, Afghanistan) as well as development cooperation policy of Poland and the EU.
He holds an M.Phil. in South Asia Studies from the Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi and M.A. in International Relations (specialisation in American Studies) and in Cultural Studies (specialisation in Religious Studies).
Ms Jennifer BABAIE works at National immigrant justice center, based in Chicago, Illinois, where she focuses on developing, organizing, and supervising three legal focus areas, including removal-defense work and legal education programs for persons seeking entry at the U.S./Mexico border.
She received a J.D. and M.A. in International Law and Organizations from George Washington University and a B.S. from Santa Clara University magna cum laude.
Photo credits: www.pism.pl and www.krwg.org respectively.