Building on the long-standing cooperation between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Academy of the Police Force, representatives of IOM, as the coordinator of the European Migration Network (EMN) in Slovakia, delivered in September a series of lectures on migration to more than 300 students at the Academy of the Police Force in Bratislava. Additionally, in October, three sessions of the educational activity Destination Europe were conducted for 72 students, further expanding the learning experience.
The lectures introduced fundamental concepts and terminology on migration, offering students an in-depth look at its history, trends, and relevance to the European Union and Slovakia. Key topics included the definition of migration, covering its different types such as voluntary and forced migration, as well as internal versus international migration. The lectures also explored the history of migration and global trends, emphasizing the shifts in migrant flows over time. Myths and stereotypes about migration were addressed. Additionally, the sessions examined the role of migration policies within the European Union and Slovakia, helping students understand how these policies shape the migration landscape.
The active discussion of students during the lectures created a space for promoting critical thinking and reflection on the broader social and geopolitical contexts related to migration.
As a follow-up to the lectures, three sessions of the educational activity Destination Europe were conducted for 72 students. This interactive tool provided participants with a unique opportunity to engage in negotiations around migration policies and to see firsthand the impacts of their decisions in a role-playing environment. During these sessions, students took on the roles of ministers, European Commissioners, and NGO representatives, immersing themselves in discussions about migration and integration issues.
We are pleased that the lectures gave the students the opportunity to gain valuable insights into migration, which they can apply in their future practice. The workshop enabled them to critically assess the complexity of migration decision-making while developing important skills such as collaboration, communication, and leadership.
EMN Slovakia organizes workshops on the topic of migration as part of which students can try the educational activity Destination Europe. The workshop is divided into two sessions of 1,5 hours each, but the duration can also be adjusted according to the needs of a school or class. The workshops are free of charge. We will be glad to provide you with more information. Please contact us by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
More information on the educational tool Destination Europe and the possibilities of using it for activities with young people can be found at: https://destinationeurope.uni.lu/slovak/.
