ICT in support of migration

This public, online lecture by Dr Karen Latricia Hough (CENTRIC) will explore how anthropologists have approached the topic of “digital migration”. It will provide evidence from two Horizon 2020 multi-disciplinary research projects Perceptions and MIICT, to show how researchers study the field of digital humanitarianism. It will address important debates concerning humanitarianism and securitization in the reception of migrants, as well as exploring the role of digital technology in aiding migrant integration.

It will address contentious areas such as the use of new technologies deployed on borders for migration management and border security under the umbrella of smart border solutions including drones, AI algorithms, and face recognition, which are widely criticized for ignoring the fundamental human rights of migrants.

The research presented in the lecture departs from the euphoric appraisals that technology has made things easier for migrants and those who assist them, to critically examine the bane and boon, benefits and afflictions, highlighting the barriers, as well as the solutions, including several under-researched aspects of digital surveillance and the digital divide.

This lecture is part of the Migration and Refugee network's Dialogue in Migration and Refugee Studies, 2022-23.
Migration and Refugees Research Network