Postcolonial Perspectives on Migration

Date 2026-02-18

Research by Head of the Department Belachew Gebrewold Presented at the Austrian Academy of Sciences

As part of the Migration and Diversity thematic platform of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW), a book presentation and panel discussion on “Postcolonial African Migration to the West” was recently held. The ÖAW thus provided a platform for the presentation of the book by Belachew Gebrewold, head of department of Social Work at MCI, and an expert discussion with other migration experts on African migration to the West – both on site in Vienna and online.

The event consisted of two parts: First, Belachew Gebrewold presented his research findings and discussed them with social scientist Rainer Bauböck (European University Institute, Florence). This was followed by a panel discussion among experts on the causes and dynamics shaping these migration movements and the political perspectives on them.

The Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW) acts as a scientific host and discussion forum in which the results of Gebrewold's research are presented in the context of current debates on migration and diversity.

The scientific examination of African migration to the West and its historical and social causes highlights key issues for the master's program in Social Work, Social Policy & Management at MCI. For students, the topic offers a sound theoretical classification of current migration dynamics and provides important impetus for the analysis of socio-political framework conditions and for professional practice in Social Work.

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