August 6–17, 2014

United Kingdom

Fieldwork in the UK

In the summer of 2014, the Group for Migration and Ethnicity Research organized its first international student expedition — to Manchester, United Kingdom. The expedition was led by E.A. Varshaver and A.L. Rocheva. Students from the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA) took part in the project. Preparation included both theoretical seminars in Moscow and a series of sessions at the University of Manchester, where participants discussed key readings and developed their fieldwork plans.

The goal of the expedition was to explore migrant neighborhoods in Manchester and analyze how these areas facilitate — or hinder — the integration of ethnically diverse migrant groups. The research focused on two neighborhoods: Curry Mile and China Town. Participants conducted field observations, interviewed residents, analyzed everyday life in the districts, and presented their findings at the end of the expedition

Morning team meeting at the University of Manchester — a briefing session before heading out into the field

A Sociological Adventure

Sociology in Manchester turned out to be not only about research but also about exploration. In their free time, participants immersed themselves in city life and interacted with locals in an informal setting.

In the photo: expedition leader and a participant at a souvenir shop