Migration is one of the biggest challenges of the 21st century. How we manage population movements in the interest of both state and human security is becoming increasingly important. Migration, whether voluntary, forced or mixed, is linked with other pressing issues such as conflict management, peace building, human rights, development, economics, climate change, demography and trade. Reflecting the linkages must be an integral part of a better management of migration.

How should states go about addressing these challenges while at the same time ensuring the protection and human rights of migrants, many of whom are fleeing danger? What are the security threats posed by international mobility? To what extent do migration laws, policies and practices make democratic societies vulnerable to security risks? What are the rights and responsibilities of people on the move? How do we maximize the benefits of migration? How can migration policies best balance the competing interests of facilitation and control, security and protection? What is the role of the United Nations (Security Council, humanitarian, human rights and development organizations) as well as regional organizations in addressing security and human rights issues arising from and affecting mass movements of people? What is the role of the public and civil society as well as the media in influencing policies around the management of population movements?

The course will proceed in three parts. Part 1 will examine the dimensions, causes and consequences of international migration and define the different types of migration and status of migrants. Part 2 will cover issues surrounding state and human security. Part 3 will consider the role of the UN, covering political, humanitarian and development bodies, regional organizations, states, political parties, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) civil society, business and the media in addressing and managing population movements.