Conference Global Labor Migration: Past and Present

There are more labor migrants working in areas beyond their birth country or region than ever before. Although scattered across the social ladder, migrant workers have always clustered, at least initially, in the bottom rungs of the working class.

Even as cross-border or inter-regional movement may beckon as a source of hope and new opportunity, the experience for the migrants and their families is often fraught with peril. Labor migrants are vulnerable: they are exploited more easily by recruiters and employers, and are less likely to benefit from union representation. They often face arrest or deportation when attempting to fight for their rights, and are bound to special documents that limit their ability to change jobs.

Moreover, as recent history reminds us, host-country fears directed towards labor migrants can also spark larger political movements characterized by nativist, racist, or even outright fascist tendencies. Clearly, there is a need to combat fear with understanding and to reach for improved global regulations and standards to protect the rights and welfare of migrants alongside those of host country working people.

Applicants are encouraged to submit full panel proposals, including a chair, commentator, and no more than three papers; individual paper submissions will also be accepted. The submission form may be found at https://apply.arhu.umd.edu/application/146/info.

Location: International Institute for Social History
Address: Cruquiusweg 31, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

• The deadline for submitting proposals was 11:59 P.M. EST, July 1, 2018.
• If you have any questions about this event, please don't hesitate to contact us at globalmigration@umd.edu. 
• The conference is not open to the public.
• The conference programme is now available
• http://globalmigration.umd.edu/events/conferences/gslm.php