The program entitled Migration Pathways: Rethinking Socio-economic Mobility in Contemporary migration Governance provided a valuable theoretical insight alongside practical engagement with the topic of migration.

During the week, students of the program had the opportunity to engage with the group of excellent experts, including lawyers, legal professionals, psychologists, sociologists, policy advisers and representatives of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum. Moreover, many students from all over the world such as the Unites States, Africa, and mostly from Europe had been connected around the migration topic which made the program even more interesting.

The lectures and discussions provided a valuable understanding of migration, as well as its legal, economic, and social aspects. As a law student, Roland have always focused on the legal aspects of migration law but this time, there was an opportunity to explore the different aspects of migration policy. For example, the students visiting the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum heard numerous informative presentations about the methods they are using to deal with the large numbers of migrants. The representatives of the ministry explained how European Union law affects their daily work, what kind of protection can be given to those who arrive at the borders. Students were also given a practical task: they had to work on a short case study related to refugees and decide what kind of protection – international or subsidiary – can be granted to refugees.

Further, students also had the opportunity to visit an NGO, called Solidarity Now where the head of the NGO and a human rights lawyer shared their experiences that they have earned while being at the borders since 2015. Students were given some presentations based on real-life stories showing not only the legal, but also the humanitarian side of migration. Students were also engaged with important questions such as how international and regional cooperation could be strengthened towards migration.

Finally, a legal advisor form the Supreme Court of Greece delivered a talk about the significance of the bilateral agreements between Greece and other countries, playing a significant role in migration law. including Bangladesh, Egypt, and India.

At the end of the program, students felt fulfilled with academic experience combined with practical case studies, and accompanied by the chance given to explore Athens and enjoy the sunset over the sea.

Reported by Roland Biró

Edited by Dr. Gizem Gültekin-Várkonyi