Course Name: POL 40589 Human Trafficking, Political Corruption, and the Mafia
Description: Every year, tens of thousands of migrants and refugees attempt to cross the Mediterranean in search of safety, economic opportunity, and political stability in Europe. Along the way, many are exploited by human trafficking and migrant smuggling networks that profit from human desperation while operating in environments shaped by corruption, weak governance, and organized crime. Italy has become one of the central entry points into Europe for migrants crossing from North Africa and the Middle East, making it an ideal setting for examining the political, ethical, and policy dimensions of migration.
This course examines the relationship between irregular migration, human trafficking, political corruption, organized crime, and democratic governance, with particular attention to the Italian context. Students will explore the socio-economic and political conditions that drive migration, the operation of trafficking and smuggling networks, the role of organized criminal organizations such as the Mafia, and the political responses that have emerged in Europe and the United States. The course also examines how migration pressures have contributed to the rise of populist political movements, debates over national identity and border security, and broader concerns about democratic governance.
By studying these issues in Florence and through site visits and engagement with Italian history and institutions, students will gain a deeper understanding of migration as both a humanitarian and political challenge with significant implications for contemporary democracy and public policy.
Credit Hours: 3
Prerequisites: None (waived)
This course is offered through the Kent Campus. Please review course tuition at /tuition to find costs for Kent campus tuition.