Catherine Wihtol De Wenden

Catherine Wihtol de Wenden has established herself as a leading authority in international migration studies through her extensive work as Research Director at CNRS (French National Center for Scientific Research) and professor at Sciences Po Paris. Her academic career spans over three decades, during which she has authored more than 20 books and conducted numerous field studies on migration patterns, citizenship, and mobility rights. Her expertise has been sought by major international organizations, serving as a consultant for the Council of Europe, the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), and various other international bodies. From 2002 to 2008, she led the International Sociological Association's research group on migrations, significantly contributing to the field's development. Her academic influence extends beyond France, as she also teaches at the University of La Sapienza in Rome. Her research focuses on international migration, the relationship between citizenship and migration, migration policies, and the political rights of migrants. She has been particularly influential in shaping understanding of Mediterranean migration patterns and European migration policies, earning recognition through various honors including being named Officier of the Legion of Honor. Her work continues to influence both academic discourse and policy-making in the field of international migration.