Migration has become an increasingly significant concern on social, political, and global fronts. Governments, policymakers and societies worldwide are prioritizing migration as a crucial policy issue. To address this complex phenomenon effectively, it’s essential to go deeper into the root causes, drivers and patterns of migration.

By analyzing migration flows, drivers, and emerging trends, HumMingBird has provided valuable insights into future implications of present policy decisions.

One of the primary objectives of HumMingBird was to improve migration governance through comprehensive data analysis. By developing migration scenarios based on both quantitative and qualitative perspectives, HumMingBird predicted future trends and their socio-economic impacts.

Ultimately, on March 21st 2024, HumMingBird took a step towards translating 5 years of research into actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders, where recommendations were compiled into a concise booklet and four dedicated sessions shed light on various aspects of migration dynamics.

You can find the booklet here.

Session 1: The voices of migrants. Reflexions on the complexity of migration trajectories

This session explored the multifaceted nature of migration by examining migrants’ experiences and motivations and the evolution of migration decisions, the role of migration hubs, and the need for nuanced approaches in migration policy beyond simplistic push-and-pull factors.

Session 2: Attitudes of the European population towards immigrants

Research showcased the impact of media consumption on public attitudes toward migrants in six European countries. It highlighted the correlation between media choices and perceptions of migrants, emphasizing the role of trust in shaping opinions. Additionally, analysis of hate speech on social media underscored its influence on public sentiment.

Session 3: Big Data and AI for monitoring and forecasting migration flows

This session discussed the integration of AI and Big Data analytics into migration research, aiming to enhance the accuracy of migration forecasts and improve monitoring capabilities. Case studies demonstrated the potential of these tools, while also addressing ethical and privacy concerns associated with their use.

Session 4: The effectiveness of migration policies

Migration policies profoundly impact societies, influencing migration trends and integration outcomes. Discussions focused on understanding the intended and unintended effects of policies, with recommendations aimed at promoting evidence-based approaches for more effective migration governance.

HumMingBird’s policy event was an excellent opportunity informed dialogue about the complexities surrounding migration. By bridging research and policy, the initiative seeks to contribute to the development of more effective and inclusive migration policies.

Stay tuned for the next and final HumMingBird event on May 27-28, 2024, in Leuven, Belgium! This event promises to further explore migration dynamics and communicate the project’s findings.