About

The Directory of Migration Research Institutions is a comprehensive database that maps migration research centres across the globe that:

• covers institutions established between 1945 and 2024 and
• includes over 350 academic research centres, museums, think tanks, and international networks.

This Directory provides a detailed view of where migration research is happening and who is involved. The data reveals a concentration of migration research institutions in the Global North, raising important questions about whose voices and perspectives are most represented in migration studies.

Purpose

Migration research institutions are the crucial nodes driving innovation in migration policy and analysis. They generate data, conduct research, and provide insights that help governments and international organisations develop evidence-based migration policies. These centers also play a key role in training the next generation of migration scholars.

The study of migration has grown significantly in recent decades, yet no comprehensive resource has existed to map the global network of migration research institutions — until now. This Directory fills this gap, providing a valuable tool for researchers, policymakers, and the broader public interested in migration studies. By mapping the geographical distribution of migration research centers, the database sheds light on regional patterns and historical trends in the study of migration.

How to use the Directory

The Directory aims to foster reflection on diversity in this field, exploring how factors like resources, gender, and geography shape the academic landscape. You can use the Directory to understand:

• Global Coverage: Discover institutions from around the world, spanning continents, states, and cities.
• Historical Perspective: Trace the evolution of migration research from 1945 to the present day.
• Gender Perspective: Explore the gender of the directors of migration research centers and how gender inequalities change across different regions of the world.
• Critical Analysis: Consider the social and cultural factors influencing who participates in migration research and how.

Explore it for yourself

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