New EU Network to Study Migration and Cities

The MITIME network is funded under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA), the EU's flagship program for doctoral and postdoctoral training. These actions support researchers across all disciplines, fostering mobility and career development to address societal challenges. The program is part of the "Excellent Science" pillar of Horizon Europe, the EU's main funding program for research and innovation. This initiative aligns with the broader Urban Agenda for the EU, established by the Pact of Amsterdam in 2016. The agenda promotes cooperation between Member States, cities, and the European Commission to tackle urban challenges, with the inclusion of migrants and refugees being one of the original 12 priority themes. The City of Amsterdam co-coordinates the partnership on this theme. The focus on post-industrial cities acknowledges their unique struggles with migration, integration, and social change, which can lead to socio-cultural inequalities. Research in this area often highlights challenges in housing, labor market segregation, and the strain on public services in cities transitioning from an industrial economy. In the Netherlands, housing for migrants is a contentious political issue. The Dutch government has grappled with balancing the needs of refugees who have been granted residency with a national housing shortage that has resulted in long waiting lists for social housing. This has led to debates about priority allocation and measures to prevent unequal treatment. The MITIME network's research into policy frameworks is particularly relevant as the Netherlands pursues ambitious goals in sustainable urban development. The government aims for a fully circular economy by 2050, with the construction sector being a priority. This involves a shift towards circular construction principles, where buildings are designed for adaptability and use renewable resources, a policy supported by the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations.