A Book-Symposium has been published by Ethnic and Racial Studies [2023 Vol46 (8)]  Discussing the Latest Book Contested Concepts in Migration Studies edited by R. Zapata-Barrero, D. Jacobs & R. Kastoryano. 

The Book-Symposium aims to foster the inspiring debate on conceptual thinking in migration studies, and in particular to stimulate the discourse on the interface between national/regional contexts and conceptual thinking. 

The discourse on migration and diversity-related issues has not yet seen the development of a comprehensive theoretical foundation or proper debate, despite its status as a prominent theme in scholarly and practitioner discussions. Contested Concepts in Migration Studies emerges as one of the pioneering essays that seek to fill this void by making a concerted effort in this regard.

John Mollenkopf received a kind invitation to replicate his critical review, accompanied by a request to scholars from Middle Eastern, Asian, Indian, North African, and Arab backgrounds to provide their brief responses. The intention was to prompt reflection on the influence of concepts in shaping our perspectives and acting as a lens.

The Book Symposium begins with an extensive critical review by John Mollenkopf,  followed by an initial response from two co-editors, R. Zapata-Barrero and D. Jacobs. Finally, the floor is opened to L. Kathiravelu, S. Sharma, and I. Awad, who share their perspectives from different regional positions.