Advancing the Reflexive Turn
Toward Participatory Migration Research in Germany and Beyond
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1590/1980-858525038800033302Palabras clave:
migration, reflexivity, liberal paradox, participatory research, knowledge transferResumen
Migration has long been at the centre of heated political, academic and public debates, and Germany is no exception. The country’s protracted controversy over whether it should understand itself as a country of immigration crystallises broader political tensions. This article first situates German migration and integration policies in their post-war historical context, showing how they have oscillated between humanitarianism, economisation and securitisation. Secondly, it analyses how migration research in Germany is often structurally intertwined with policies, such as through the unreflective use of problematic concepts that is originated in political debates. Thirdly, the article highlights a further aspect related to the need of a reflexive turn in migration studies that can help address previously noted tensions, opening possibilities for change relevant not only to Germany but to migration research more broadly. It stresses the importance of epistemological and ethical-political reflexivity towards participatory research designs and strategic transfers of knowledge beyond academia. We conclude that moving beyond purely diagnostic approaches towards generating knowledge for action can improve the access to rights and resources, support institutional and policy change, and foster empowerment among marginalised groups, while remaining compatible with scientific rigour and the democratic mandate of migration research.
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