The Value of Information. Mobility and Border Knowledge Battlegrounds in the Ventimiglia Region

Abstract

This contribution explores the acquisition, circulation and negotiation of knowledge related to mobility and border crossing among migrants at the French-Italian border of Ventimiglia. Despite governmental deterrence policies and border controls, the pursuit of “secondary movements” seems not to decrease, and is increasingly putting Europe to the test. In this context, the underground knowledge network that exists can be used to circumvent legal and geographical borders and to gain access to forms of citizenship. The “right” information is thus fundamental in determining the level of risk embedded in the various pathways and practices of de-bordering, as well as in constructing specific behaviors and migration carriers. To examine contentious information issues, we have participated in activities supporting the Progetto20k collective, including: Eufemia Info&legal point, an independent solidarity center in Ventimiglia; and the Italian-French Border Guide, a project designed to produce and spread mobility knowledge.