Institute for Diaspora and Intercultural Studies (IDIS)
Migration is a global phenomenon. People migrate for various reasons. Some for personal reasons, and others due to forced displacement caused by natural disasters or wars. Overall, the estimated number of international migrants has risen to 304 million in 2024 over the past five decades.
The Institute for Diaspora and Intercultural Studies (IDIS) is an institute that addresses topics related to diaspora communities, intercultural interactions, and global mobility. IDIS strives to understand the cultural dynamics, social networks, and identities of migrants, as well as the impact of intercultural exchange. Its aim is to provide research data on real-world problems related to migrants and people living outside their country of origin, and to develop resources that support both diaspora communities and the host country in fostering a reconciled and peaceful society.
IDIS deals with the following research areas
- Diaspora studies: Study of the lives, cultures, history and impacts of diaspora communities, including how they maintain ties to their home cultures while integrating into new societies.
- Migration studies: Investigation of migration patterns, causes and effects on both the countries of origin and the receiving countries, as well as the experiences of the migrants themselves.
- Intercultural communication: Research into the interaction, communication and influence of different cultures in various global contexts, including issues of language, identity and integration.
- Globalization and TransnationalismUnderstanding the impact of globalization on cultural exchange, the migration of people and ideas, and the emergence of transnational communities.
- Identity and belonging: Study of the ways in which individuals and groups create, negotiate and assert their identities in diasporic contexts, including issues of ethnicity, religion and national identity.
Our services
- ResearchWe offer empirical studies and publications on the topics of diaspora, migration, intercultural communication, globalization and transnationalism, identity and belonging (including interviews, editorials and ethnographic reports).
- EducationWe offer training, mentoring, and conferences for leaders of migrant, refugee, and diaspora communities.
- AdviceWe offer advice on cultural diversity, multicultural communities, intercultural competence, second-generation issues, bicultural identity, etc.
- NetworkingWe offer a network of different diaspora and migrant groups through projects, programs, meetings and conferences.
- LobbyingWe advocate for refugees at the UN in Geneva.
- NewsletterWe offer a quarterly newsletter to inform you about our projects.