Discover how our research into the complexities of cross-border mobility is advancing knowledge, shaping policy, benefiting society and addressing global challenges.
The increase in cross-border human mobility—driven by greater freedom of movement within the European Union, advances in transport and communications technology, global inequality and political instability—has created both opportunities and challenges. People move as permanent or temporary migrants, refugees or daily commuters, raising complex issues for sending and receiving countries, including Luxembourg.
Crossing Borders is committed to advancing innovative research and developing data-driven tools that support informed decision-making. By promoting evidence-based policies, we aim to increase resilience, cohesion and prosperity across borders, ensuring that cross-border mobility benefits individuals and societies worldwide.
Discover how our research is shaping policy for a more inclusive and sustainable future, while deepening our understanding of the complex dynamics of cross-border mobility, social cohesion and economic growth.
ACROSS is more than a PhD programme—it’s a powerhouse for training the next generation of experts in cross-border mobility. Funded by the Luxembourg National Fund for Scientific Research and led by LISER, the University of Luxembourg, and STATEC, this doctoral training unit brings together the best minds in economics and geography.
With 12 PhD candidates, ACROSS promotes collaboration, advanced research and practical training. Students dive into specialised courses, master cutting-edge methodologies, and expand their networks through international conferences and research visits.
One of ACROSS’s highlights? Monthly doctoral lectures by world-renowned scholars, ensuring students stay at the forefront of mobility research. ACROSS isn’t just about education—it’s about shaping policy, building expertise and redefining the future of cross-border movement.
Our transversal programme integrates ongoing and new cross-border mobility projects at LISER. It promotes international publications, enhances research visibility, fosters scientific collaboration and engages public authorities and other stakeholders.
Explore our flagship projects and recent publications. These resources highlight our commitment to advancing knowledge and driving positive change in society.
Ranked consistently among top research institutions
Since 2020, LISER has achieved recognition as one of the world's top institutions in the field of Economics of Human Migration due to its significant research contributions in this area: top ten in the world, top five in Europe, first in Benelux (source: RePEc).
A recent article in The Economist examines the United Kingdom’s intention to align elements of its asylum policy with the Danish model.
In this context, the article features the work of Christina Gathmann, Director of the Labour Market department, whose research provides robust evidence on the positive long-term effects of citizenship on migrant integration.
The Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research (LISER) has been invited to present its research at the Climate Mobility Pavilion during COP30, which will take place in Belem, Brazil, in November 2025.
LISER and its 17 partners of the Cahiers de la Grande Région have just presented the 9th Cahier at the 89th edition of the Agricultural, Forestry, and Agri-food Fair of Libramont (Belgium).
