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United Nations Officer, SLU-Madrid Alumnus Talks Global Governance

by Isaiah Voss

Saint Louis University-Madrid welcomed back alumnus Felipe Queipo Rego, program management and communications officer with the United Nations, for a guest lecture on global migration and sustainability on June 10.

The lecture, titled "Global Governance, Migration and Sustainability," was presented as part of the course "Politics of Forced Migration" and brought together students interested in international affairs, public policy and global development.

"Throughout the session, he spoke passionately about the important role of refugee-led and migrant-led organizations in shaping migration policy and ensuring that the voices and lived experiences of affected communities are at the center of public narratives in today's increasingly polarized environment," said Simona Rentea, Ph.D., professor of political science.

Drawing on his experience working within the United Nations system, Queipo Rego explored the challenges and opportunities associated with international migration in an increasingly interconnected world. He examined the role of global governance institutions in addressing migration flows while balancing humanitarian, economic and environmental concerns.

Man speaking to students with flags of the U.S., the University, and Spain to the left and the poster of the event is projected on the screen to his right.

Queipo Rego speaking to students in the San Ignacio Hall Auditorium. Photo by Isaiah Voss

"Felipe also highlighted the distinctive contribution of faith-based organizations, emphasizing their dual role in providing humanitarian assistance and supporting the long-term local integration of migrants and refugees," Rentea said. "Their work, grounded in the principles of hospitality, solidarity, and human dignity, was presented as an essential complement to state-led responses."

The discussion highlighted the relationship between migration and sustainable development, emphasizing the need for coordinated international responses to displacement, demographic change and climate-related migration. Students also learned about current global migration trends and the policies shaping international cooperation on migration issues.

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