The March 12 event at MCC Szeged (Hungary) brought together INIR experts to examine how migration has evolved beyond a humanitarian issue into a geopolitical tool.
Mark Krikorian, Executive Director of the Center for Immigration Studies, and Róbert Gönczi, analyst at Migration Research Institute explored how certain states and non-state actors manipulate migration flows to exert political pressure. They highlighted historical examples, from Cold War-era refugee movements to contemporary crises to illustrate how migration has been weaponized to destabilize neighboring nations or secure political leverage.
The conversation delved into the challenges of weaponized migration for national security and governance. Panelists analyzed the European Union's struggles with border control and debated the impact of the EU Migration Pact, questioning its effectiveness in addressing hybrid threats. Additionally, they examined the U.S. approach, contrasting Biden-era immigration policies with current strategies under the Trump presidency. Discussions also touched on the difficulties of integration, seen in many countries that face social and economic tensions stemming from mass migration.
The event concluded with a lively Q&A session where participants raised concerns about ethical and legal dilemmas surrounding migration control. Some questioned whether stringent border policies undermine humanitarian principles, while others stressed the need for a balanced approach that safeguards national security. The discussion underscored the complexity of migration management in a politically charged world, leaving attendees with a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of modern migration challenges.
