The Redundant Researcher: Fieldwork, Solidarity, and Migration

This chapter poses questions about research on a phenomenon that is polluted by politics, personal tragedies, ideological loyalties, and hazards for the subject of research. Is it possible to conduct research that contributes to freedom of movement, while reflecting on the emotions and political loyalties of the researcher? The chapter suggests four concrete principles for an emancipatory migration research paradigm and considers reflections, emotions, and narrations during and after the conduct of fieldwork at the Greek islands of Lesvos and Chios in the winter of 2019. This is also a call for future publications from researchers who have faced similar emotions, and dead ends in the field, and wish to engage in research compatible with solidarity with migrants.