Course Description:
Immigration policies aim to facilitate the entry of foreigners whose presence is desired, and to identify and deter the entry of unwanted foreigners, particularly those who pose security risks. “National security” is generally defined as the protection of the state from external foes; in the migration context, such foes include criminals, terrorists, traffickers, smugglers and other individuals who pose a risk to the residents of the country of destination. This course examines the interconnections between international migration and security, identifying various types of threats and weighing the extent to which they pose security risks. It focuses particularly on assessing the effectiveness of initiatives at the international, regional and national levels to prevent entry of and apprehend, prosecute and deport those who pose security threats, including the use of new technologies. The course examines both theory and practice in helping participants understand the complexities of balancing security and facilitation as well as the protection of the rights of migrants and refugees.