Martin Ruhs

Martin Ruhs is a Full-time Professor of Migration Studies and Deputy Director of the Migration Policy Centre (MPC) at the European University Institute (EUI) in Florence. Previously, he served as Professor of Political Economy at the University of Oxford. His academic appointments include significant leadership roles at the Robert Schuman Centre for Advanced Studies.

Ruhs's research focuses on the economics and politics of international migration with a strong international comparative dimension. He is particularly interested in the links between migration and wider public policies, and the tensions between diversity in national institutions and supra-national policy-making. His work addresses key questions and dilemmas in public policy-making across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on migration policy dilemmas, with particular emphasis on irregular migration, public perceptions of fairness in asylum systems, ethical considerations in migration governance, and the relationship between migration and welfare states. His research combines theoretical rigor with practical policy implications, often examining how institutional frameworks shape migration outcomes.

• Co-editor of the World Migration Report 2018 (IOM)
• Co-author of a 2022 European Parliament study on rights of irregular migrant workers
• Regular contributor to major media outlets including New York Times, Financial Times, Guardian, and Irish Times

Ruhs currently provides policy analysis and advice for various national governments and international institutions. His supervisory work includes mentoring PhD students Andreea Ferent, Julie Fournier, and Hirotaka Fujibayashi. His ongoing research projects include 'Protecting Irregular Migrants in Europe (PRIME)' (2023-26), freeEUmove, MEDAM, DYNAMIG, MigResHub, AFAR, Dilemmas, and research on EU Member States' protection policies for Ukrainian refugees.