5th Roundtable Forced Migration Studies on
"RESPONSIBILITY IN FORCED MIGRATION STUDIES: ETHICS, SAFETY, SECURITY"
Wednesday, May 14th, 2025, 10.00-12.00
Bonner Universitätsforum, Heussallee 18-24, 53113 Bonn
On May 14, the Bonn Platform for Forced Migration Studies hosted an interdisciplinary roundtable on “Responsibility in Forced Migration Studies.” The event brought together experts from academia and practice to engage in a joint reflection on pressing ethical challenges in research — ranging from data sensitivity and research ethics to the safety and security of both researchers and the individuals and communities involved.
Following a brief welcome and introduction by the organizers, a moderated panel discussion opened the substantive part of the event. Panel participants included:
Dr. Galina Selivanova (Forum Internationale Wissenschaft, University of Bonn)
Dr. Jana Kuhnt (German Institute of Development and Sustainability, IDOS)
Nadine Kollmeyer (Research Officer for Ethics, University of Bonn)
The discussion was marked by a critical and open reflection on the responsibilities researchers face in a field increasingly shaped by political dynamics — both at an individual and institutional level.
A key focus was placed on power dynamics in the research process and the need to apply research ethics standards consistently and with sensitivity to context. Other important themes included the challenges of working with sensitive data, the protection of research participants, and the evolving role of researchers as potential mediators or even political actors.
Following the panel, participants were invited to join an open exchange, which many used as an opportunity to share their own experiences, raise questions, and discuss existing tensions in the field. The discussions made it clear that an ongoing dialogue on ethical issues — as well as on institutional frameworks — is essential for conducting responsible research in this sensitive area.
The Bonn Platform for Forced Migration Studies thanks all panelists and participants for their thoughtful contributions and lively engagement. The Platform is committed to fostering interdisciplinary, practice-oriented dialogue and to advancing forced migration research in a critical, reflective, and responsible manner.
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Contact:
Dr. Sandra Gilgan (BORA, University of Bonn)
Maarit Thiem (BICC / FFVT)
Dr. Lena Laube & Dr. Maria Ullrich (FIW, University of Bonn)
Jure Leko (BIM e.V.)