Methodology

The project follows a multi-level analysis focusing on three levels: macro (supranational, national), meso (subnational, local, NGOs) and micro (individual). We aim to illustrate the co-constitutive processes between macro, meso and micro levels by implementing an integrated research design in which we will study the so-called “refugee crisis” and its impacts at all levels.

Methodologically, the research relies on a multi-stage research design, incorporating a variety of quantitative and qualitative methods for data gathering and analysis. At analytical level, the transdisciplinary research design is built on the findings of legal and policy analysis, comparative historical analysis, political claims analysis, socio-economic and cultural analysis, longitudinal survey analysis, interview based analysis, and photovoice techniques.

The interviews are conducted with different groups with and without flight experiences, including NGOs, political and administrative institutions on state, federal and communal level as well as self-organized groups. In addition, round table discussions and focus groups enable an in-depths understanding of the research field and the inclusion of involved actors.

The work plan is organized around 11 work packages (WPs) – of which 8 have research tasks. The project also includes two WPs to organize impact-related activities targeting different audiences, including the scientific community, policy actors and the public in general.