Course Name:  POL 40995 Crossing Lines: Migration and the Surge of Right-Wing Populism

Course Description: Delve into the dynamics between migration from the Global South and the rising tide of right-wing populism in the Global North. This course begins by examining how migration from Central and South America has contributed to the political ascendancy of figures like Donald Trump in the United States, then broadens to a comparative analysis of how African and Middle Eastern migration has fueled right-wing populism in Europe, including Germany’s Alternative for Germany, France’s National Rally, Hungary’s Fidesz, and Italy’s Lega. Throughout the semester, we will explore a variety of factors that amplify the voice and impact of anti-immigration movements, paying special attention to how different electoral systems—from winner-take-all to proportional representation—influence these dynamics. Students will come away with a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary political landscape shaped by global migration, equipped to critically analyze and discuss the complex interplay between migration and political trends.

Credit Hours: 3

Prerequisites: None