ES/PO/SO 363 - Equitable Living: The Human Right to Migration

IES ABROAD’s Global Pillars- Sustainable Living, Equitable Living, and Human Well-Being- Integrate most of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s). The Global Pillars Courses utilize these pillars as a reference framework to adopt a problem-based learning methodology and to build a multidisciplinary learning community. The Human Right to Migration course focuses on the Equitable Living Pillar and challenges students to study the complex issue of the right to migration to the Netherlands and the UK,using the legal framework of the European Human Rights Convention, the (CJEU), and each country’s immigration policies.

“Migration is a fact of life, a defining feature of humanity – and above all a positive phenomenon, enriching societies & economies. Whether their movement is voluntary or forced, formally authorized or not – all human beings must have their rights respected & dignity upheld.” – Antonio Guterres, UN Secretary General

There is a common, erroneous perception that international migration is threatening due to the sheer number of immigrants as well as the financial impact or risk immigrants may pose to a nation’s ability to care for or sustain its citizens. However, according to the latest data, less than 4% of people move permanently from their country of origin and global remittances are over 700 billion dollars  (UN, 2022). In simple terms, there are not only fewer migrants than common perception would lead one to believe but also, they are responsible for generating a tremendous amount of wealth. This gap in public perception and data presents an opportunity for a more  nuanced and informed consideration of both contemporary migration and the history of migration, while recognizing the basic human right to move. 

Through the integrated and interdisciplinary analysis of the migratory route from the South to the North of Africa, and then from the South to the North of Europe, we aim to foster a deep understanding of the intertwined relationships between human mobility, environmental degradation, and colonial histories. Ultimately, our goal is to empower students to engage in meaningful reflections and actions towards fostering more just and equitable living conditions for all individuals.