STREAM · Nations Reversed. National Imaginaries, Images of Migration in Greece and Mexico

Nations Reversed. National Imaginaries, Images of Migration in Greece and Mexico

STREAM explored the visual representations of migration and the “Other” in Oaxaca, Mexico, and Chania, Greece. By comparing these regions, the study investigated the impact of migration imagery on national self-representation. Both countries have faced significant migratory movements and foreign policies that emphasize their historical dependence on Western powers and their unequal political status in relation to the Global North. These dynamics raise important questions about the role of visual images in shaping local and national identities and the effects of these representations on the integration of migrants. The project examined the interplay between national narratives and the representation of migrants, aiming to understand how images—whether in photographs, artworks, street art, films, or verbal representations—can enhance or hinder the integration of migrants and the perception of the "Other." The study extends beyond typical analyses of migrant representation, focusing on how these images influence the local imaginaries in regions that are themselves often marginalised, reflecting on the broader relationship between nationhood, migration, and local perceptions at national and international levels.STREAM's societal significance lies in exploring the impact of migration imagery on both the host nation and its citizens, moving beyond conventional portrayals of migrants. The research aims to understand how such images shape national self-perceptions and inform local attitudes toward migrants as well as violence. The project addresses the ways that marginalized communities within the nation relate to migrants and questions the politics of representation regarding migrants and the "Other." It also sought to foster solidarity between national populations and migrants, ultimately challenging prevailing stereotypes and promoting more harmonious integration. By exploring these dimensions, STREAM aimed to understand how different layers of perceptions can improve the representation and integration of the "Other." It concludes that how populations are represented within their own national context influences their perceptions of migrants, leading to varying attitudes toward those from outside. The project highlights the paradox of regions known for their hospitality yet also grappling with xenophobic sentiments, shedding light on how national identity and migration intersect in complex ways.

Data: CORDIS, © European Union