This list brings together the esteemed individuals who are making significant strides in these critical areas within Europe. From shaping policies that protect the rights of migrants to advocating for the fundamental human rights of all, these thought leaders are not just participants but driving forces in the ongoing dialogue and action surrounding migration and human rights. Their diverse backgrounds in advocacy, policy development, and strategic planning, combined with their commitment to equity and justice, make them essential voices in the pursuit of a more inclusive and fair European society. Following these influencers offers insights into the challenges and opportunities at the intersection of migration and human rights, highlighting the innovative solutions and impactful work being done to address some of the most pressing issues of our time. Return to the main list here.
Vít Novotný – Senior Research Officer at Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies
Vít Novotný is an expert in migration, asylum, and border control at the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies. His diverse background includes experiences in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, and various roles in policy development across the UK and Czechia. He was involved in in the citizen movement that ended Czechoslovakia’s Communist regime, and in 1992, he ran for the Czech Parliament. Vít brings a comprehensive perspective to European migration and asylum discussions. His publishing and social media activity makes him a key figure to follow for those interested in the dynamics of European governance and policy-making in the topic of migration.
Alyna C. Smith – Deputy Director at Platform for Undocumented Migrants (PICUM)
Alyna has dedicated her career to advocating for the rights and well-being of undocumented individuals, focusing on access to healthcare and justice. Her work prior to PICUM spans diverse roles, including legal practice focusing on patent and antitrust litigation with a pro bono focus on asylum, immigration, and human rights, as well as roles at the World Health Organization and the Federal Court of Canada. Currently, Alyna serves on the boards of Lighthouse Reports and European Digital Rights, underscoring her commitment to social justice and digital rights. Alyna’s unique combination of legal expertise, ethical insight, and unwavering commitment to human rights positions her as a key influencer worth following and connecting with for anyone interested in migration, justice, and the intersection of technology and human rights.
Salvatore Petronella – Knowledge and Influence Lead at Labor Mobility Partnerships (LaMP)
Salvatore Petronella works in policy engagement within the realm of labor mobility and the smuggling of migrants, holding the position of Knowledge and Influence Lead at Labor Mobility Partnerships (LaMP). His experience spans coordinating the Migration Partnership Facility at the International Centre for Migration Policy Development, leading evaluation and impact assessment studies at ICF International, and contributing as a senior expert to the European Migration Network. With a background that includes working at the European Commission on integration policies and supporting the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime on smuggling of migrants, Salvatore brings a comprehensive understanding of EU migration policies and international migration governance. Based in Sweden, Salvatore is recognized for his expertise in migration policies, project management, and public consultancy, making him a valuable professional to follow and connect with for insights into global mobility and partnerships development.
Seden Anlar – Host & Producer of the Changing the Table Podcast
Through her work, Seden explores the challenges faced by New Europeans in political participation, aiming to not just invite people to the existing table but to change the table itself for a more inclusive European democracy. Her commitment is supported by the New Europeans Initiative, reflecting a dedication to removing barriers and making democratic processes accessible to all. With a background as a once-undocumented first-generation non-EU immigrant, Seden brings a unique perspective to her interviews with community leaders, researchers, and policymakers. Her podcast is a platform for discussing how to achieve a society that welcomes diverse and internationally mobile populations, making her a valuable voice for anyone interested in the future of migration policy and inclusive politics in Europe.
Tamam Abusalama – Communication Officer at the European Council on Refugees and Exiles
Born and raised in the Jabalia Refugee Camp in the Gaza Strip, Tamam’s early experiences fueled her determination to make her voice heard globally. Pursuing journalism in Turkish at Ankara University and later communications in Brussels, she focused her master’s thesis on the post-colonial and intersectional representation of women refugees in Western media. Tamam’s professional journey spans contributions to international news outlets, volunteering in refugee-led organizations, and feminist collectives. Currently, as the Communication Officer at the European Council on Refugees and Exiles, she applies her diverse skills and knowledge to advocate for refugees’ rights. Her work and activism positions her as a key voice in migration governance and refugee advocacy.
Andrew Stroehlein – European Media and Editorial Director at Human Rights Watch
Author of the Human Rights Watch’s newsletter, Daily Brief. Before joining Human Rights Watch, Stroehlein was the Communications Director for the International Crisis Group, where he worked on media strategies for peace and security issues worldwide, aiming to prevent and resolve deadly conflicts. His career also includes time spent at the Institute for War and Peace Reporting and as a journalist, covering topics such as violent conflicts, authoritarian regimes, and the role of media in these contexts. Founder of the Central Europe Review. Stroehlein’s reports and commentary have been published in major newspapers across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa, contributing to discussions on international human rights and conflict resolution. On Twitter he is followed by former president of the United States, Barack Obama.
Andrzej Korkus – CEO at EWL
EWL Group is renowned for being the fastest-growing company in cross-border employment within the EU. As the founder of the Foundation for Migrants Support and a noted author, including co-writing “The Employment of Foreigners in Poland in Practice,” Andrzej Korkus is a leading voice on immigration and HR issues. Andrzej stands out also for his dedication to humanitarian causes, particularly in supporting Ukraine during its crisis. His recent visit to Kiev underscores his commitment to firsthand understanding and aiding in the region’s needs. Additionally, since 2018, EWL Group has conducted sociological studies among foreigners employed in the EU, further contributing to Korkus’s impact in the field of employment and migration.
Andreea Belu – Head of Communications and Campaigns at European Digital Rights
Andreea brings a wealth of experience from her past role as Board Director at the Danish NGO Oi4P and her contributions to DataEthics.eu, enriched by her background in a PET Startup. In her work she focuses on making complex digital rights issues accessible and actionable for a wide audience. Followers can expect insights into effective EU advocacy strategies, the interplay between new media and society, and the latest developments in digital rights protection. Her diverse experience and multilingual abilities make her a must-follow for those interested in the future of digital rights and advocacy.
Enrico Tormen – Advocacy Advisor at Save the Children Europe
With a passionate belief in the EU’s potential to make significant social impacts, Enrico focuses on human rights, migration, and EU external relations, particularly advocating against child poverty and social exclusion. Before his current role, he contributed to Eurochild as an EU Affairs Officer and co-chaired the EU Alliance for Investing in Children. His background includes a stint at the European Parliament, where he was involved in migration, home affairs, and security, and on-the-ground experience as a Refugee Camp Manager with Lighthouse Relief in Greece. Enrico’s multifaceted career reflects his robust commitment to humanitarian causes and makes him a vital figure to follow for insights into child advocacy and the broader human rights landscape in Europe.
Eleanor Linsell – Policy & Advocacy at WeProtect Global Alliance
As Advocacy Manager at WeProtect Global Alliance she focuses on developing policies and solutions to safeguard children from sexual exploitation and abuse online. Her work encompasses a range of responsibilities including global advocacy strategy, participation in the Global Taskforce on Child Sexual Abuse Online, and the creation of intelligence briefings, policy papers, and roundtables on global legislative and technological developments. Before joining the Alliance, Eleanor was involved with Google’s government affairs team, where she worked on EU campaigns outreach, political engagement for child safety programmes, and initiatives to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion. Additionally, Eleanor has volunteered for organizations supporting survivors of rape and sexual violence. Her expertise in technology policy, EU affairs, and her dedicated efforts in child protection online make her a valuable follow for individuals interested in the intersection of digital safety, advocacy, and human rights.
Birgit Van Hout – Director at UNFPA Representation Office in Brussels
Birgit brings extensive experience from her service across diverse international bodies including the United Nations, the European Union, and various NGOs. She possesses substantive expertise in foreign policy, humanitarian assistance, international development, gender issues, and peace & security. Her tenure at the United Nations Human Rights as Regional Representative for Europe and Head of Brussels Office, along with her roles in violence prevention and as Executive Director at NCCJ, underscores her dedication to human rights, governance, and civil society development. Her leadership at UNFPA focuses on advancing gender equality, reproductive health, and population development, making her insights invaluable for those interested in international development and humanitarian advocacy.
