#FirstWeds Spring Series: Conflict and Migration through the lens of Solidarity

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‘Conflict and Migration through the lens of Solidarity‘:

Wed, 6 April, 2022; 7PM: PART 1 –


In April our panel, consisting of Ukrainian activists and those working on the frontline of the ongoing refugee crisis caused by the war, will discuss what expressions of support and solidarity from Ireland can look like. And, as we extend this support and solidarity, consider how can we grow our understanding of the geopolitical context within which this calamitous war is unfolding.

Wed, 4 May, 2022; 7PM: PART 2 –


In the weeks following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the open-arms approach of EU member states to those fleeing to the West has been warming. However, this reaction sits in sharp contrast to otherwise unyielding EU border policies. Indeed, in recent months these hardline policies have blocked and impeded the efforts of many to find refuge and safety in Europe and have cost lives on land and at sea. We think of those fleeing Taliban rule in Afghanistan from mid-2021 onwards, the many thousands who were trapped at the Byelorussian-Polish border at the end of 2021, those who continue to embark on long and dangerous journeys across the Mediterranean from North Africa and many others. How have these stories and journeys been told through the media? Media narratives both reflect and also shape public opinion. News outlets can serve to harden public attitudes, portraying refuge seekers as ‘other’, ‘different’, ‘self-interested’ or even ‘dangerous’; coverage can mute (or even undermine) efforts to meet those seeking safety with solidarity and challenge the exclusionary system. As we have seen in recent months, however, the media also has the power to soften attitudes and to encourage a welcome based on empathy and solidarity. Our May panel of journalists will take a closer look at the duality of attitudes towards refugees, the role of the media in shaping narratives, either positive or negative, and how we can use this moment to uphold our welcome to all people in need of refuge.

Wed, 1 June, 2022; 7PM: PART 3 – CRIMINALISATION OF HUMANITARIANS ON THE EUROPEAN BORDERS


In June, we will speak to a panel of migrant solidarity responders whose humanitarian work on European borders is increasingly threatened by false accusations, arrests and criminal charges.
Drawing on the recent prosecution of search and rescue volunteers Seán Binder, Sarah Mardini, and Nassos Karakitsos (Human Rights Watch has described their prosecution by the Greek authorities as the criminalisation of saving lives), we will take a closer look at a distressing pattern of attacks across the European Union on humanitarian efforts to help migrants and refugees.

All sessions will be moderated by the staff of the Maynooth University Department of International Development.