by Nick Mai, University of Leceister, UK

In today's globalized world, characterised by heightened mobility, inequalities and communication, migration has become reframed by competing narratives of successful self-realisation that are more visibly shaped by gendered, affective, and sexual relationships, attachments, and expectations. These factors intersect with political and economic constraints and frame people's decision to move to have better lives and escape poverty or socio-political oppression. Building on the established "sexual" and "emotional" turns in migration studies, and incorporating Nick Mai's concept of "mobile orientation," this paper will argue that focusing on sexuality and emotions reveals the pivotal role desire plays in shaping migration processes. It demonstrates that exploring these dimensions offers valuable insights into the motivations and lived experiences of migrants, enhancing our understanding of agency within the context of neoliberal migration beyond traditional economic or political explanations.

Nick Mai is a Sociologist, ethnographer and filmmaker.

More information here

Friday 25th October 2024, from 10 am until 11.30 am

Room S.15.215
Building S - Level 15
ULB - Campus Solbosch

Registration required here

Contact : Dr. Laure Sizaire, Chair of the seminar