Migration and Displacement in a Shifting Global Order

We are witnessing a world in upheaval: multilateral cooperation is under pressure, international politics is becoming more transactional, funding for development cooperation and humanitarian aid is being cut, and key norms of international law are being undercut. These developments fundamentally change the context in which forced displacement and migration occur, and increase the pressure on Germany and Europe to take action.

The impact of migration policies in Germany and the EU extends far beyond territorial borders. Depending on their design, they can stabilise or destabilise countries of origin and refugee-hosting countries, strengthen or strain partnerships, and promote or hinder development. At the same time, migration often serves as a focal point for polarized debates, such as those concerning intra-European solidarity, responsibility-sharing with countries in the Global South, and questions of internal and external security.

Against this backdrop, the project analyses the changing need for action in three key areas:

Conflict-induced displacement
Labour and educational migration
Human mobility in the context of climate change

The aim is to identify specific points of intervention and opportunities for shaping a German and European refugee and migration policy. Publications from the research project can be found in our dossier on forced displacement and migration.

In addition to providing research and policy advice, the project also plays a coordinating role. It connects research projects on displacement, migration and development that are funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and facilitates regular exchanges between key stakeholders. These include the Bonn International Centre for Conflict Studies (BICC), the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS), the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP) as well as representatives from academia, politics and practice.

Project duration: March 2026 – July 2028

Project funding: German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)