From Research to Action: Advancing Expert Witnessing in the Asylum Process
Half Day Short Course
1:30pm – 5:30pm
Supported by a grant from the APSA Centennial Center, this half-day short course introduces political scientists to the critical and often underutilized role they can play as expert witnesses in asylum proceedings. With global displacement at a record high—108 million people forced to flee due to persecution, violence, or human rights violations—there is a growing need for country conditions experts who can provide essential political, social, and legal context to inform asylum decisions.
This workshop is designed for scholars interested in applying their disciplinary training and area expertise in real-world settings to support asylum seekers and strengthen democratic institutions. Participants will learn about the structure of the U.S. immigration and asylum system, the function of expert testimony, and the practical mechanics of writing declarations, working with attorneys, and participating in hearings. Led by faculty with experience in over 150 asylum cases and featuring voices from within the immigration legal system, the course will equip attendees with the tools and confidence to begin—or expand—their work as expert witnesses.
In addition to training, the course will foster a professional network among political scientists engaged in this work, encouraging long-term knowledge exchange and collaboration. As thousands of asylum hearings are scheduled across the country in the coming years, this workshop offers timely and actionable insight into how political scientists can contribute meaningfully to justice and inclusion.
Note: This course is funded by an APSA Centennial Center Grant. The registration fee will be waived for the first 50 participants.