Research on Forced Migration in the Gaza Strip

As part of my Geographies of Migration class, this research investigates the impact of the Israeli blockade on forced migration in the Gaza Strip. It examines how the blockade's economic and security consequences drive Palestinians to migrate within Gaza and across borders, focusing on the 2023 Israel-Hamas conflict. The study highlights the role of political sovereignty in shaping migration routes and the challenges faced by displaced individuals.

Since I was interested in understanding the impact of the Israeli blockade on forced migration in the Gaza Strip, I focused on how the security and economic conditions created by the blockade influenced the migration decisions of Palestinians. By analyzing recent events such as the 2023 Israel-Hamas war, I sought to explore how these factors contributed to internal and external displacement in Gaza.

My research process for this paper involved:

  • Collecting and analyzing data on the historical context and economic conditions in Gaza, focusing on the blockade's impact on essential resources like food, medical aid, and electricity.
  • Reviewing peer-reviewed literature on forced migration theories and the relationship between military blockades and displacement.
  • Examining case studies from recent conflicts, particularly the 2023 war, to understand the direct impact of security conditions on migration patterns in Gaza.
  • Investigating migration routes and border control policies to explore how the Israeli occupation influences the movement of displaced individuals.
  • Engaging with international reports and personal testimonies from forced migrants to provide a real-world understanding of the situation.

This research allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of how political, economic, and security conditions intersect to shape migration decisions, particularly in conflict zones. Through this process, I strengthened my analytical skills and refined my ability to synthesize complex geopolitical factors and their human impacts.

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Learning Significance

  1. Through this research, I gained a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between political, economic, and security factors in migration patterns. I explored how the Israeli blockade contributes to the forced migration of Palestinians, shaping their decisions and routes of movement. This study not only enhanced my ability to critically analyze geopolitical issues but also broadened my understanding of migration as a complex, multidimensional process. It emphasized the importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the influence of international policies on migration flows.