Borders, Migration and Class in an Age of Crisis: Producing Workers and Immigrants

This book challenges standard narratives about immigration and problematises commonplace distinctions between 'migrants and 'workers, using Britain as a case study to propose alternative understandings of the relationship between borders, migration, and class that provide a basis for solidarity.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 254 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2020
Publisher: Bristol University Press

This book responds to the growing global trend of restrictive border controls and populist movements that target migrants for violence and exclusion. Drawing upon Marxist theory, it seeks to challenge conventional narratives surrounding immigration and problematize the common distinction between 'migrants' and 'workers.' Through a case study of Britain, the book explores how these categories have been constructed and mobilized within representations of a 'migrant crisis' and a 'welfare crisis' to facilitate capitalist exploitation. By incorporating ideas from grassroots activism, the book proposes alternative understandings of the relationship between borders, migration, and class that serve as a foundation for solidarity.

Introduction:
The world is witnessing a surge in restrictive border controls and populist movements that target migrants for violence and exclusion. These trends are driven by a range of factors, including economic insecurity, political polarization, and fear of cultural change. While these movements claim to address the concerns of local communities, they often perpetuate harmful stereotypes and discrimination against migrants.

Marxist Perspective:
This book takes a Marxist approach to understanding the dynamics of immigration and its relationship to class. It argues that the capitalist system relies on the exploitation of labor and the division of society into different classes. Immigration, therefore, becomes a tool for capitalists to maintain their dominance and control over the workforce.

Britain as a Case Study:
Britain serves as an important case study for this analysis. The country has experienced a significant increase in immigration in recent decades, with many migrants coming from countries in the Global South. However, this increase has been met with hostility and resentment from some sections of the population.

Constructing and Mobilizing Categories:
The book examines how these categories have been constructed and mobilized within representations of a 'migrant crisis' and a 'welfare crisis.' It shows how the media, political parties, and even grassroots organizations have used these categories to promote fear and prejudice against migrants. The book also highlights the ways in which these categories have been used to justify restrictive policies and practices.

Alternative Understandings:
In response to these challenges, the book proposes alternative understandings of the relationship between borders, migration, and class. It emphasizes the importance of solidarity and collective action among migrants and workers, regardless of their immigration status. The book also suggests that the struggle against restrictive policies and practices should be linked to broader social and economic issues, such as inequality, poverty, and climate change.

Conclusion:
This book provides a critical analysis of the growing trend of restrictive border controls and populist movements that target migrants. It challenges conventional narratives about immigration and problematizes the common distinction between 'migrants' and 'workers.' By proposing alternative understandings of the relationship between borders, migration, and class, the book seeks to build a foundation for solidarity and collective action among migrants and workers.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529201826