Switzerland is currently re-examining its post-migration identity, shaped by successive waves of migration since the 1950s — from seasonal laborers from Italy and Spain, to refugees from the Balkan wars, and more recently, from Ukraine. According to the Federal Statistical Office (2022), 40% of the Swiss population has a migration background. Cities like Geneva and Biel, whose identities are deeply rooted in their diversity, exemplify this reality. In response, the Federal Commission on Migration launched the “New Us – culture, migration, participation” call for projects, supporting innovative initiatives that foster cultural participation, social cohesion, and a sense of belonging in a migration society. Since 2020, many civil society projects have been submitted — only one with an archaeological dimension: “Stories of Migration: From the Past to the Present,” led by ArchaeoConcept.
This educational project aims to explore how children aged 10 to 12 experience migration, which is considered a universal phenomenon, and to share with them the archaeological knowledge about past migrations in Switzerland. It situates migration in a long-term context while linking it to recent individual and collective experiences. The project aims to develop students’ reflexivity by encouraging dialogue between past and present perspectives and giving them a voice on these issues. Classroom interventions have resulted in a podcast created with and for the students.
In our presentation, we will outline the project’s participatory methodology, its measurable outcomes — including increased historical awareness, critical thinking, and self-expression. We will also discuss future perspectives, such as expanding the project to other regions or school levels. This initiative demonstrates how archaeology — often perceived as distant — can become a living educational tool to address contemporary societal issues, directly involving young people in building a shared, inclusive memory.

First Author: Ellinor Dunning

Co-Authors: Camille Aeschimann, Ludivine Marquis

Keywords:
past and present migrations
archaeological artifacts
education
participation
identity
social cohesion