Coercive Geographies: Historicizing Mobility, Labor and Confinement

Coercive Geographies examines historical and contemporary forms of coercion and constraint exercised by actors in diverse settings, linking space, precarity, labor coercion, and mobility. It analyzes coercive geographies as localized and spatialized intersections between labor regulations and migration policies, which become detrimental to existing mobility frameworks.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: Haymarket Books

Coercive Geographies: Examining Historical and Contemporary Forms of Coercion and Constraint in Diverse Settings
In today's world, migrants face numerous challenges and navigate complex geographies. Coercive Geographies, a groundbreaking book, delves into the historical and contemporary manifestations of coercion and constraint exerted by various actors across diverse settings. It connects the issue of spatial confinement to the realm of labor, shedding light on the intricate relationships between these two critical aspects of human existence.

Coercive Geographies presents a comprehensive approach to understanding the interplay between space, precarity, labor coercion, and mobility. It recognizes that precarity emerges in specific geographical and historical contexts, which shape its nature and impact. This volume analyzes coercive geographies as localized and spatialized intersections between labor regulations and migration policies, which often undermine existing mobility frameworks.

Contributors to Coercive Geographies include Irina Aguiari, Abdulkadir Osman Farah, Leandros Fischer, Konstantinos Floros, Johan Heinsen, Martin Bak Jørgensen, Martin Ottovay Jørgensen, Apostolos Kapsalis, Karin Krifors, Sven Van Melkebeke, Susi Meret, and Vasileios Spyridon Vlassis. Their diverse perspectives and expertise contribute to a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics of coercion and constraint in the world of migration.

One of the key themes explored in Coercive Geographies is the impact of coercion on migrants' lives. The book highlights how migrants are subjected to various forms of coercion, including physical violence, exploitation, and discrimination, which often result in their exploitation and marginalization. These coercive practices are often perpetrated by state actors, employers, and other individuals or groups with power.

Coercive Geographies also examines the role of migration policies in shaping coercive geographies. Migration policies are often designed to control and regulate migration flows, but they can also have negative consequences for migrants. For example, restrictive immigration policies can limit migrants' access to employment, education, and healthcare, leading to poverty and social exclusion.

Furthermore, Coercive Geographies highlights the importance of labor regulations in shaping coercive geographies. Labor regulations can be used to control and exploit workers, particularly in low-wage industries. These regulations can include minimum wage laws, overtime pay requirements, and workplace safety standards. However, they can also be used to prevent workers from organizing and advocating for their rights.

The book also explores the ways in which migrants respond to coercive geographies. Migrants may engage in various forms of resistance, including collective action, protest, and migration. These responses can be effective in challenging coercive practices and improving their conditions. However, they can also be met with violence and repression by state actors.

Coercive Geographies also highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing coercive geographies. Migration is a global phenomenon, and it requires a coordinated response from all countries. International cooperation can help to address the root causes of coercion and constraint, such as poverty, inequality, and political instability.

In conclusion, Coercive Geographies is a vital book that sheds light on the historical and contemporary manifestations of coercion and constraint in diverse settings. It connects the issue of spatial confinement to the realm of labor, highlighting the importance of understanding the complex dynamics between these two critical aspects of human existence. The book's contributors provide a diverse range of perspectives and expertise, which contribute to a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics of coercion and constraint in the world of migration. By addressing these issues, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all migrants.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 153 x 230 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642596205