Academic Themes
Migration and Interculturalism Initiative
One of the lasting legacies of the Celtic Tiger is the fact that Ireland has been transformed from an apparently mono-cultural and mono-ethnic emigration society into one which is attracting significant numbers of immigrants from Europe and further afield. While the current economic crisis might determine some of its immigrants to return to their countries of origin, or deter new ones from making the trip to the island, large numbers of other immigrants have already made their home in the state. With over 10% of the labour force being born outside Ireland, more than 50 nationalities being present and over 150 languages being spoken in the state, Ireland is becoming increasingly diverse.
Recognizing the critical importance of migration and intercultural dialogue in contemporary Ireland, DCU has launched a concerted research and intervention initiative around these issues. The MII brings together researchers and practitioners across a range of disciplines- including anthropology, sociology, politics, economics, interculturalism, legal studies, media, nursing studies, business, and education. Together with researchers at other universities and civil society and government partners we seek to encourage a progressive agenda so that the opportunities presented by migration contribute to a better Ireland.
In doing this, we are conscious that the response of the political system, civil society and the educational institutions to this new internationalised and multicultural Ireland will largely determine the quality of the democracy we will live under in the decades to come. In times of growth as in times of crisis, we need to ensure that Ireland’s economic and political standing in the world is matched by social inclusion and a respect for cultural diversity.
