International Institute of Social Studies

General faculty information

The International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) is an international graduate school of policy-oriented critical social science. It brings together students and teachers from the Global South and the North in a European environment. Established in 1952 by Dutch universities and the Netherlands Ministry of Education, ISS does research, teaching and public service in the field of development studies and international cooperation. ISS is located in The Hague, the International City of Peace and Justice.

What is your research focus regarding (the governance of) migration and diversity?

Within ISS’ Research Programme on Global Development and Social Justice, ISS has four multi-disciplinary and cross-cutting research themes that integrate ongoing research efforts within the institute. Migration and diversity is one of these four themes. Within this theme ISS researchers examine the transformations of national societies and global society. A number of ISS researchers are also involved in the migration and diversity theme of the Erasmus Initiative on Vital Cities and Citizens (VCC).

What are your educational programmes on governance, migration and diversity?

ISS participates in the LDE master Governance of Migration and Diversity. It offers the track Migration and Development: Globalization, Livelihoods and Conflicts.

What do you do on societal impact regarding (the governance of) migration and diversity?

ISS strives for societal relevance and impact in all that it does. ISS’ research was deemed excellent/world-leading for its societal relevance for its last research quality assessment back in 2017. ISS constantly looks for ways to bridge theory and practice, combining rigorous academic research with societal relevance. Our critical research is done with stakeholders rather than only for them and seeks to engage those most affected. ISS research embraces the Global North and South: research findings from both regions are expected to inform one another. Aiming to get its research out to the wider world, ISS maintains strong linkages with amongst others policy makers, NGOs and international organizations. ISS’ research feeds into education and vice versa.

Role within and contribution to the LDE Centre GMD

Thea Hilhorst is a board member of the LDE centre. Jeff Handmaker coordinates the track on migration and development in the migration and diversity Master programme. Two lecturers on migration are currently recruited and will further contribute to the centre.

International Institute of Social Studies