Migration, Labour and Conflict

Module Code: SO7049

ECTS Credit : 10
Mandatory/ Optional : Optional
Module Coordinator : Dr Camilla Devitt, Department of Sociology, Trinity

Module Description:

This module focuses on two key interrelated areas within migration studies and political sociology; labour and conflict. It introduces students to the literature on labour migration, theories and empirical research on the politics of immigration and scholarship on violent and non-violent conflicts revolving around or involving ethnic minorities or newly arrived immigrants. The main area of interest is migration into and within Western Europe, but comparative references to other parts of the world are made.

Learning Outcomes:

On successful completion of the module students should be able to:

Explain the main theories of international labour migration;
Discuss the evolving role of the state in governing labour immigration;
Discuss the growth of extreme right political parties in Europe;
Critically discuss conflict regarding labour immigration policies in Western Europe and conflicts concerning Muslim practices in Europe;
Understand work-related discrimination and conflict involving migrant workers.

Lectures & Tutorials/ Contact hours:

Module Length: 11 weeks (Hilary Term)
Workload: Readings: 70hrs; Formative assessment (e.g. practice-based activities): 30hrs; Summative assessment (e.g. essays, journals): 100hrs. Total: 200 hours

Recommended Texts

Dancygier, R. (2010) Immigration and Conflict in Europe. New York: Cambridge University Press.
Menz, G. (2008) The Political Economy of Managed Migration, Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Messina, A.M. (2007) The Logic and Politics of Post-WWII Migration to Western Europe. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Ruhs, M. and B. Anderson (2010) Who Needs Migrant Workers? Labour shortages, immigration and public policy. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Torpey, J. (2000) The Invention of the Passport. Cambridge: CUP.