Objective:This forum aims to promote critical analysis of “human security” as a conceptual framework and embed human dignity as a central concept in migration and border studies. Working group members are invited to submit short analytical pieces (500-1000 words) focusing on topics related to human dignity, borders and migration from all world regions. Scholars and practitioners from non-RISC Consortium institutions are most welcome join.

 

History: In November 2009, the « Comparative Border and Migration Politics Working Group » of the RISC Consortium held a seminar in Medellín Colombia on “Border (Re)Configurations and their Impacts on Human Security in Different Migration Regimes.” The seminar united both Colombian and international scholars to discuss contemporary threats to human security in both domestic and international migration processes. More specifically, the seminar examined political, economic and social forces which threaten the human dignity of populations in movement.

 

Themes: One objective of this forum is to critically discuss the concept of “human security” which is defined here as measures aimed at guaranteeing human dignity. The purpose of this discussion is to go beyond the 1994 United Nations Development Report’s definition of “freedom from fear and freedom from want” in an attempt to operationalize the paradigm. Second, the forum aims to create debate on the relationship between “human security” and “human rights” or "social security" as conceptual and policy-making tools. Finally, the forum aims to raise awareness about human security threats in borderlands and migration regimes throughout the world.

 

In order to participate in this forum, individuals must become members of the Comparative Border and Migration Politics working group. In order to publish short articles in the forum, make comments on articles, submit notifications of publications, conferences, workshops, etc. or make recommendations for reading, participants should click "forum" in the menu above and then "general discussion."