The Migration Turn and Eastern Europe: A Global Historical Sociological Analysis

This book examines the structural and discursive transformation that can explain the polarization of migration debates and the rise of nationalist anti-migrant discourses in Europe, particularly in Eastern Europe and Hungary. It argues that the rise of anti-immigration currents cannot be understood without a dialectical and historical analysis of marketization and related reification. Drawing from thinkers such as Lukács, Polanyi, and Gramsci, as well as diverse empirical sources, the book is a unique and rigorous study of one of the most pressing and puzzling political and sociological questions of our time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 426 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This book delves into the intricate dynamics of migration debates and the emergence of nationalist anti-migrant discourses in Europe, with a particular focus on Eastern Europe and Hungary. Employing Marxist and Polanyian frameworks, it seeks to unravel the structural and discursive transformations that have contributed to this polarization. By going beyond the conventional explanations that attribute the rise of anti-immigration currents solely to nationalist propaganda, the book proposes a comprehensive analysis that encompasses marketization and related reification as key factors. Drawing upon the insights of thinkers such as Lukács, Polanyi, and Gramsci, as well as a diverse range of empirical sources including demographic studies, historical modeling, and discourse analyses, Migration Turn and Eastern Europe emerges as a unique and rigorous exploration of one of the most pressing and perplexing political and sociological issues of our time.

The book begins by examining the historical roots of migration in Eastern Europe, tracing the patterns and trends of migration across the region. It explores the various factors that have influenced migration, including economic opportunities, political instability, and social and cultural factors. The book also examines the ways in which these factors have interacted with each other, leading to the emergence of different migration regimes and policies in different countries.

One of the key themes of the book is the role of marketization in shaping migration dynamics. The author argues that marketization has led to the commodification of migration, with migrants being treated as commodities rather than human beings. This has resulted in the exploitation of migrants, with low wages, poor working conditions, and limited rights and protections. Moreover, marketization has also contributed to the marginalization of migrants in society, with their voices and perspectives often being ignored or marginalized.

To address these challenges, the book proposes a range of policy recommendations. It advocates for a more human-centered approach to migration, with a focus on the rights and dignity of migrants. It also calls for the implementation of policies that promote social integration and inclusion, such as education and training programs, language courses, and access to healthcare and social services.

Furthermore, the book emphasizes the need for a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between migration and nationalism. It argues that nationalism is not necessarily a negative force, but can be used to promote social cohesion and stability. However, nationalism can also be manipulated and exploited by political elites to gain support for anti-migrant policies.

In conclusion, Migration Turn and Eastern Europe is a valuable contribution to the study of migration and nationalism in Europe. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the structural and discursive transformations that have contributed to the polarization of migration debates and the rise of nationalist anti-migrant discourses. By proposing a range of policy recommendations and emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding of the relationship between migration and nationalism, the book provides a valuable framework for addressing these complex and pressing issues.

Weight: 706g
Dimension: 155 x 218 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031142932
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023