The Fletcher School at Tufts University and Robert Bosch Stiftung Launch Leadership in Migration Initiative

Stuttgart/Medford, Massachusetts - The Fletcher School at Tufts University, in collaboration with the Robert Bosch Stiftung, is proud to introduce the Leadership in Migration Initiative. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to identify and nurture leaders from various spheres—ranging from national and municipal leaders to humanitarian advocates and migrant/refugee representatives—who approach migration issues with empathy, strategic foresight, and a dedication to inclusive resolutions.

The primary goal of the Leadership in Migration Initiative is to establish a comprehensive understanding of migration leadership through global best practices and real-world experiences, fostering constructive dialogues on effective leadership in this domain. The initiative will kick off by conducting in-depth interviews with individuals with hands-on experience and expertise in migration-related fields.

Key questions to be explored include: What constitutes effective migration leadership? Which leaders have demonstrated bold visions and inclusive approaches to migration challenges? Once the criteria for migration leadership are defined, the initiative will culminate in a public event celebrating exemplary leaders whose actions can inspire and cultivate future leadership.

Fletcher Professor Carlos Alvarado Quesada, and former President of Costa Rica, emphasized, "Our objective is to study and disseminate practical insights on how individual leaders can enact meaningful change."

Raphaela Schweiger, Program Director at the Robert Bosch Stiftung, added, "Through the Leadership in Migration Initiative, we aim to empower a diverse cadre of leaders to craft adaptable solutions that prioritize human dignity and protection, setting the stage for future leadership models."

Spanning from 2024 to 2025, the initiative will include the publication of case studies and articles, a celebratory event, a symposium, and the development of a training program tailored for migration practitioners. By convening former, current, and prospective leaders engaged in human mobility issues, the initiative seeks to foster a culture of innovation and excellence, nurturing bold, inclusive, and deliberate leadership approaches in migration matters.

Led by Professor Karen Jacobsen and Professor Carlos Alvarado Quesada, the initiative is housed within the Leir Institute for Migration and Human Security at the Fletcher School of Tufts University. It receives support from the Leadership in Migration Advisory Group.