ABSTRACT
The introductory chapter begins by describing the key concepts, issues, and actors in global migration governance, including different types of migration, international norms and laws, and international organizations. The chapter describes what exactly the global compacts are—namely soft law, non-binding cooperative frameworks, and the bundling and reaffirmation of rights. In addition, the compacts established a path toward future global migration governance through institutions like the Global Refugee Forum or the International Migration Review Forum. Next, the chapter lays the context for the global compacts by tracing three shifts in global governance: first, from treaties to compacts; second, from human rights to humanitarian aid; and third, from the politics of the Cold War to those of nationalism. Finally, the chapter presents an overview of the book.
