Maria Cristina Garcia

Dr. Maria Cristina Garcia investigates emerging trends in refugee, climate-driven migration, and immigration history as a Howard A. Newman Professor of History at Cornell University's Romance Studies department. She is also an esteemed Andrew Carnegie Fellow at the Einaudi Center for International Studies. Her scholarly work delves deeply into the complexities of refugees, immigrants, and exiles, providing critical insights into the socio-political dynamics that influence these groups. In her recent publication, "The Refugee Challenge in Post-Cold War America," Dr. Garcia meticulously examines the myriad factors that have shaped U.S. refugee policy in the contemporary era. Her analysis offers a nuanced understanding of how historical contexts and policy decisions intersect, impacting the lives of countless individuals seeking asylum and refuge. Dr. Garcia's current research project is a pioneering exploration into the environmental origins of refugee migrations, often referred to as "climate refugees." This work seeks to illuminate the growing phenomenon of climate change-induced displacement, offering a comprehensive analysis of its implications for global migration patterns and policy responses. Her academic pursuits extend to U.S. Latino history, where she investigates the rich tapestry of experiences and contributions of Latino communities in the United States. Through her research, Dr. Garcia aims to foster a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary challenges faced by these communities, contributing to broader discourses on immigration and exile studies.