Doctoral Workshop on Exploring Migration and Border Dynamics: Navigating Intersectionality, Affectivity, and Resistance

The Doctoral Workshop on Exploring Migration and Border Dynamics, jointly organized by DeMig, the Doctoral Program in Migrations at ULisboa, and Migrations Hub ICS, unfolded on November 23-24, 2023. This collaborative endeavour sought to unravel the present-day intricacies of migration studies, focusing on three pivotal clusters: "Gender, Race & Sexuality", "Borders, Citizenship & the Labour Market" and "Affectivity, Social Relations & Sensorial Experience".

Dr. Eleonore Kofman, keynote speaker for the inaugural cluster, “Gender, Race & Sexuality”, delivered an insightful presentation that sparked interactive and in-depth discussions, emphasizing the necessity of placing Western researchers within a global context. Ongoing debates in the field, such as academic dependency on the English language and the imperative of inclusivity in migration studies, emerged as prominent themes. The student’s presentations provided a comprehensive overview of various critical aspects related to migration. These included an examination of how refugee and migrant women cope in Portugal, delving into their experiences and the development of a sense of belonging in a new cultural context. Additionally, discussions explored the intricate ways in which migration influences parenthood, shedding light on the challenges and transformations experienced by individuals within this context. The cluster also addressed the stereotyping of migrants, highlighting prevalent societal perceptions and biases that impact the lives of those on migratory journeys. Moreover, there was a focused exploration of the violence faced by women and other minority groups, emphasizing the importance of understanding, and addressing these issues within the broader framework of migration studies. The presentations in Cluster 1 collectively contributed to a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted dynamics involved in the migration experience, exploring the distinct experiences of intersectional migrants, and probing how factors like gender, race, and sexuality mould their migratory paths.

In the second cluster, "Borders, Citizenship & the Labour Market," keynote speaker Elena Fontanari led discussions on the global mobility regime and the multifaceted role of borders. The presentations delved into discussions about the (self)identification of migrants, often adopting a special legal status as a mechanism to navigate the securitization of borders. The discourse also revolved around the borders and how, in this context, they serve not only as tools to restrict and control migration but also, significantly, to filter movements, establishing hierarchies through bordering processes. These processes aim to produce a pool of inexpensive, precarious, and just-in-time workers susceptible to exploitation in specific labour market niches. The state's strategy involves integrating migrants based on neoliberal mechanisms, fostering a moral economy of deservingness grounded in individual success or failure. Migrants and asylum seekers respond with diverse, fragmented forms of resistance, negotiating across countries and time. They embody a transient existence, employing everyday resistance methods and collective actions against institutional abandonment, dispersal, labour market exploitation, and temporal oppressions. Their modes of self-organization and resistance not only advocate for greater inclusion but increasingly evolve into movements seeking escape and autonomy from the oppressive logic of state laws. This resistance, an opposition to power, manifests in what can be termed as interstices – small spaces of autonomy that emerge within a system of power.

The third and final cluster, "Affectivity, Social Relations & Sensorial Experience," kicked off on the second day with keynote speaker Diana Mata-Codesal leading an exploration of affectivity, social relations, and sensorial experiences in the migratory journey. Participants delved into how individuals carry memories, mindsets, and material possessions, shaping the establishment of new livelihoods and connections. This cluster comprised presentations that reviewed the importance of diverse perspectives from migrants, frontline professionals, and the host society, explored various facets of the migration process. The discussions encompassed the trauma associated with migration, delving into the nuanced impact on individuals. Presentations also shed light on the beliefs held by migrants, including their religious affiliations, and emphasized the significant role language plays in shaping their experiences. Furthermore, the cluster delved into the intricate mechanisms’ migrants employ to maintain a connection with their home culture while being away. This included an exploration of how food serves as a powerful means of reliving home, offering insight into the cultural and emotional dimensions that play a crucial role in the lives of migrants.

The second afternoon featured a reflective roundtable where participants collectively delved into the intricacies of academic research. A series of questions sparked introspection, unravelling the dynamics that shape the research process, its impact, and the broader ethical considerations tied to knowledge production. The exploration commenced by investigating the sources of change within academic research. Participants pondered whether innovation arises solely from within the academic community or is intricately connected with external forces such as societal needs, technological advancements, or policy changes. Central to the discourse was the relationship between academic journals and the transformative potential of research. Beyond conventional dissemination channels, the conversation broadened to explore how academic research can transcend, addressing real-world challenges, and contributing significantly to societal progress.

Ethical considerations emerged as a cornerstone of the dialogue, with participants delving into the responsibilities associated with academic research. Emphasis was placed on transparency, responsible conduct, and the societal impact of research methodologies and practices. Recognizing the inherent limitations of research in isolation, participants emphasized the necessity of collaboration. This extended to experimental co-work and the creation of networks spanning beyond academic boundaries. The consensus was clear: academic research, on its own, cannot fully unlock all realms of knowledge. Addressing the pressing issues of time and energy within academia, emotional collaboration took centre stage. Recognizing the importance of supportive networks, participants shared tools and strategies to cope with psychological stress, difficulties, and the inherent precarity faced by researchers.

Challenging prevailing narratives, the workshop asserted that migration is not a problem but rather an enriching aspect of academic life. The discussion aimed to reframe the discourse, exploring the positive contributions and diverse perspectives that migration brings to academic and societal landscapes. As the workshop concluded, a panoramic view of the discussions revealed an interconnected web of themes. The synthesis of reflections highlighted the imperative for collaborative, ethical, and holistic approaches to academic research. It served as a rallying call for a more inclusive and nuanced perspective, acknowledging that true knowledge production transcends disciplinary and geographical boundaries. The workshop finished with a distinctive food workshop titled "Brazilian Recipes and Ingredients in Portugal," led by Chef Samuel Brito. Participants engaged in small group activities, creating delicious snacks, and fostering a sense of community. This culminating event served as a reminder of the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential learning in the study of migration and border dynamics. The workshop provided a platform for insightful discussions and set the stage for future endeavours in the dynamic field of migration studies.