This project aims to develop methods and approaches for using big data in conjunction with traditional administrative and survey data to understand and eventually forecast mass movement of people who are forced to migrate. Our initial case study was Iraq, and the project team is developing new models to predict forced mass-migration and show their effectiveness on multiple conflicts in the Middle East, South America and Central America. The site will be used to highlight both the theoretical and data driven methodologies that our project team uses as we advance research in this space.
Learn MoreOur interdisciplinary team of computer scientists, social scientists, and humanists bring their disciplinary expertise to the problem of forced migration. Our high level method looks at ways to integrate different methodologies to better understand the decision making process, as well as the movement taking place.
Learn MoreWhile there are a number of theories and frameworks explaining the drivers of movement, or more specifically forced migration, many are very linear and do not adequately account for shifts in patterns of displacement. This makes it difficult to understand when, where and how displacement will take place. We propose a new theoretical model for capturing the drivers of movement within the decision-making process.
Learn MoreSince 2014 our interdisciplinary team has published results about forced migration, algorithms for extracting signals from unstructured data, statistical advancements and our project methodology. We have also begun work on understanding the role of misinformation plays in this arena.
Learn MoreOur indirect indicators of movement (big data variables) and exploratory tools are available to social scientists studying forced migration. We have created both visual analytic tools and a data portal to support research in this area. Our focus to date has been Iraq and Venezuela.
Learn MoreWe are an interdisciplinary collaborative across universities, NGOs, and national labs. The core work takes place at Georgetown University. Other collaboring unviersities include York University, Portland State University, and Penn State.
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