CESSMIR – Centre for the Social Study of Migration and Refugees
CESSMIR conference 14-16 September 2026
Looking back, moving forward: migration studies in times of societal transformation
CESSMIR celebrates its tenth anniversary with a conference! A warm welcome to researchers, practitioners, NGO representatives, volunteers, activists, and policymakers to join us for a conference exploring migration studies in a changing societal landscape. Our call for contributions is now open until January 31, registration (for contributors and non-contributors) will be open from March 2026 onwards.
This conference not only marks a decade of CESSMIR’s dedication to advancing the study of migration and refugees, but also aims to create a vibrant space for dialogue, reflection, and collaboration. Join us as we look back at the major changes in the last ten years, and envision new paths forward, strengthening the links between research, practice, and societal impact.
In the spotlight
Recently added projects
From transit migration to family reunification: our ongoing and past projects show how diverse migration is and how it affects people and societies in different ways. Each project is based on has a scientific basis and has attention for the voices of the people involved.
About CESSMIR
Interdisciplinary research with societal impact
CESSMIR is an interdisciplinary center at Ghent University dedicated to the social study of migration and refugees. With over 150 researchers, we bring together science and practice to contribute to a more inclusive society.
We focus on societal relevance, collaboration with the field, and the active involvement of various stakeholders within and outside the university.
Change, hope and activism
In a time of increasingly harsh border politics, migration studies are shifting. Beyond informing policy, researchers are exploring civic engagement, migrant-led solidarity initiatives, and the intersections between migration and struggles around labour, the environment, and inequality.
This shift invites us to rethink the role of academia and to see mobility not only as movement, but as a force for change and connection.
With this annual theme, CESSMIR will spark dialogue on how migration shapes – and is shaped by – broader societal, economic and political transformations.
Curious about our upcoming events and how you can get involved?