The International Development Policy Centre of King’s Think Tank will host Humanising the Inhumane, an event that brings together both academics and field experts to discuss the complexities of migration, in particular across the Mediterranean - an issue that has become increasingly central in present day society. Through their research and experience, speakers will challenge dominant political narratives, shedding light on the repercussions of hostile migration policies on both migrants and actors involved in the phenomenon.

The event will be organised around two panels. The first panel, “Tensions in the Mediterranean: NGOs, State Actors, and the Future of Migration Governance” will be centred around the evolving landscape of migration governance in the Mediterranean. From ethnic discrimination in transition countries to potential reshaping of cooperation agreements, experts will examine the impact of migration securitization by European and North African governments for NGOs, their contribution to mounting regional tensions, and - most importantly - how they affect migrants themselves.

The second panel, "Framing Migration: Media, Politics, and the Criminalisation of Migrants" will focus on how migration is portrayed and politicized in both destination and transition countries. Speakers will discuss particularly how populist narratives influence public attitudes and highlight the responsibility for media to foster a less polarizing discourse.

By bringing together experts and an engaged audience, Humanising the Inhumane seeks to enrich debates on migration, challenge misconceptions, and encourage a more empathetic and informed dialogue.