Description
We live in an age of migration. A greater number of people than at any other time in the era of nation states live outside the borders of their (or their parents’) country of birth. This age of migration is characterised by voluntary as well as forced mobility, legal as well as irregular movement, regional as well as transcontinental migratory patterns.
International migration is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by a variety of factors and causes. Conflict, instability, economic imbalances, globalisation, demographic developments, demand and supply of labour, new means of communication, and the increasing effects of climate change prompt ever larger segments of the world population to cross international borders in search of refuge, a better future, or fulfilment of personal aspirations in the near or far abroad.
Migration is not only a very complex subject, it is also a highly contested one. It connects people and links communities, countries and continents. It provides opportunities, but it also poses challenges. It is shaped by powerful drivers, a myriad of actors and interests, and objectives that are diverse and at times conflicting. Migration brings us together, but sometimes it drive us apart.
Like all other state institutions governing migration, the State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan must meet high expectations – and apply the highest professional standards in doing so. Trained and well-educated staff are perhaps the most essential part of well-developed institutional capacity.
The purpose of this textbook, developed in the framework of the EU-funded MOBILAZE 2 project, is to support precisely this priority. Its eleven chapters gather together the analysis of a wide range of internationally recognised experts, who draw on their vast experience and know-how to provide information and insight on fundamental theoretical concepts and the state of international research, while illuminating the background of the related political debate, migration diplomacy and international cooperation.
While this textbook aims to provide a detailed picture of the respective thematic areas, it also seeks to promote holistic understanding of the migration subject in its entirety. A general overview and detailed know-how are the two elements which form strong institutional knowledge, and I hereby sincerely thank all our authors for their work, for the exceptional quality of their contributions and, indeed, for their willingness to support this common goal so readily.
I also wish to express my gratitude to the European Union for its support for the MOBILAZE 2 project; my ICMPD colleagues, for their dedicated work; and, most importantly, all colleagues from the State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan, whose continued support and strong engagement has guided our joint efforts towards an excellent result.
I am firmly convinced and truly hope that you will find this textbook a timely and useful tool for your further work in the area of national and international migration governance.
Michael Spindelegger Director General, ICMPD