Lezing
Keynote lecture: The quest to be (trans)nationals: Experiences of being Asian in Europe
- Datum
- woensdag 25 maart 2026
- Tijd
- Bezoekadres
-
Lipsius
Cleveringaplaats 1
2311 BD Leiden - Zaal
- 0.28
Abstract
Is it the best of both worlds? Or falling between two stools? For many leading a transnational life, these are probably familiar questions. In this talk, I will draw on my research into transnational Asian (mainly Chinese) migrants in Europe over the past three decades to reflect on the pains and gains of leading a transnational life. From restaurateurs, tourist guides, students, academics, activists, to mothers and children, all of my research interlocutors have grappled with the freedom and constraints of being here and there. But is it always in their hands to decide where to belong and how they are identified? With a few examples drawn across time and space, I will highlight the role of the 'others' — including various actors and institutions, ranging from the state to neighbours — in the quest to be (trans)nationals among Asians in Europe.
Biography
Maggi Leung is Professor at the Department of Human Geography, Planning and International Development Studies (IDS) at the University of Amsterdam. She is a social geographer and migration scholar by training. Her current research interests are the opportunities and challenges of migration, with a focus on related injustices; the impact of climate change on livelihoods in vulnerable settings; ‘Global China’ and its impact on global development and the wellbeing of the Chinese diaspora. At the UvA, she is actively involved in two IDS master's programmes.
This keynote lecture is part of the MA Asian studies Annual Graduate Student Conference: Who is Asian? Definitions, Representations and Marginalizations on 26 March 2026.