Migration has been a defining feature of Chinese history and global interactions for centuries. From historical waves of emigration to Southeast Asia, the Americas, and beyond, to contemporary movements of students, professionals, and labor migrants, Chinese migration patterns reflect deep structural transformations in the global economy, shifting state policies, and evolving transnational networks.
This course explores theoretical frameworks and empirical case studies to analyze Chinese migration in historical and contemporary contexts. To do so, the course is divided in two parts: Part I focuses on theoretical and historical foundations of (Chinese) migration, and the specificities of China´s migration policies and state involvement. Part II discusses the contemporary dynamics and specific case studies arising out of these dynamics. Topics include internal and external migration in China, diaspora formation, labor and capital flows within and beyond China´s Belt and Road Initiative, racialization, gender and family dynamics, as well as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on migration.
By the end of the course, students will:
1. Understand key migration theories and their application to Chinese migration.
2. Analyze historical and contemporary Chinese diasporas in Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Europe.
3. Evaluate how state policies, global economic shifts, and transnational networks shape migration trends.
Students are expected to actively participate in discussions, critically engage with readings, and prepare presentations on selected case studies throughout the semester.
- verantwortliche Lehrperson: Clara Jutta Margarete Baumann