ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of the book. The book explores the zones of social interaction using empirical data. It considers historical patterns of migration. It situates migration into a wider socio-political framing to show how various factors intersect to influence migrants' pathways. The book examines the significance of terminology and language in defining migrants and thus the ways in which these labels are socially constructed. It presents key considerations for researchers engaged in research with migrants. Many different issues are analysed, including researcher positionality and accountability, power relations in the field and research ethics. The book describes the patterns and processes of migration to Northern Ireland, a NID region. It discusses migration governance and further develops the theme of social group relations by using social boundaries. It focuses on how the state creates zones of inclusion and exclusion: boundaries are made real through social agents who interpret their rigidity and porosity.
