"Migration is an expression of the human aspiration for dignity, safety and a better future. It is part of the social fabric, part of our very make-up as a human family."
– Ban Ki-Moon, Former UN Secretary-General
As we commemorate International Migrants Day, UNU-MERIT reflects on the importance of migration as both a global challenge and a transformative opportunity. With over 15 years of experience researching migration dynamics, training future leaders, and supporting evidence-based policymaking, UNU-MERIT continues to play a vital role in this critical field. From conducting innovative research to training MPP and PhD scholars alongside senior government officials, our work underscores the need for thoughtful and informed approaches to migration policy. Indeed, one of the four specialisations of our master's programme in Public Policy and Human Development is Migration Studies.
Key Challenges in 2025
Prof. Dr. Melissa Siegel, Head of Migration Studies at UNU-MERIT, identifies pressing challenges and priorities for global migration governance in the months ahead:
“While there are labor shortages and ageing populations in many countries, the appetite to admit migrants – or even discuss migration – is waning. A critical challenge in the coming year will be how migrants are perceived globally. Migrants encompass diverse people who move for various reasons, yet this nuance is often lost in political and media discussions. Additionally, ongoing conflicts will continue driving demands for asylum, putting further pressure on the existing refugee protection framework. It is essential to safeguard these human rights protections to ensure dignity and safety for those who need it most.
At the same time, many economies face large labor shortages that must be addressed with pragmatic and efficient legal pathways for migration. These policies must be well managed to rebuild public trust in governments and institutions. This is where evidence-based research must play a vital role in crafting sustainable solutions.”
Highlighting UNU-MERIT’s Migration Work
This year, UNU-MERIT researchers have worked tirelessly to provide insight and solutions to migration challenges. To mark this important UN Day, we invited our researchers to share their perspectives and contributions.
Dr. Michaella Vanore, a Research Fellow at UNU-MERIT and Director of the Global Studies Programme at Maastricht University, discussed her work on migration and integration in a new SBE Podcast episode. In the podcast, she reflects on the Dutch government’s proposed internationalisation policy and its implications for higher education, migration, and labor markets. Dr Vanore highlights the interconnectedness of education, migration policy and economic development, underscoring how inclusive and international learning environments benefit not only students but society at large.
PhD fellow Tobias Hillenbrand explored the complex dynamics shaping attitudes toward humanitarian migration. In his video contribution, Hillenbrand sheds light on the increasing opposition to asylum immigration, the social and economic forces that shape refugee attitudes, and the importance of moving beyond simplistic narratives: “It’s crucial to avoid putting people into boxes when discussing migration and refugees. Attitudes are shaped by multiple factors, and understanding these complexities can help us address polarisation and work toward more inclusive policies.”
As 2025 approaches, UNU-MERIT remains steadfast in its mission to provide evidence-based research and equip both current and future policymakers with the tools and insights needed to navigate the complexities of migration. Through our work, we aim to foster informed policymaking that upholds human dignity, strengthens communities and advances the Sustainable Development Goals.
