One of the most contentious political issues of the past decade has been global migration. Former President Donald Trump has explicitly stated that his immigration policy would not only block new migrants from entering the U.S. but also target millions of existing residents for deportation. To achieve this, Trump is expected to rely on Stephen Miller, the architect behind some of his harshest border policies during his previous term, to spearhead these efforts. Partnering with Miller will be Tom Homan, a new border czar, tasked with overseeing operations to deport millions, regardless of the human or financial implications. Even if other elements of Trump’s domestic policy face obstacles, Miller and Homan would be given wide latitude to implement aggressive and punitive immigration measures.
On the international front, a Trump victory could significantly bolster two prominent leaders currently embroiled in military conflicts. Russian President Vladimir Putin would likely celebrate such an outcome as an opportunity to reshape U.S. policy in Moscow’s favor. Trump is expected to reduce aid to Ukraine and adopt pro-Russian narratives, possibly framing the ongoing conflict as Russia’s legitimate pursuit of national interests. With the war’s trajectory still fluid, 2025 could mark a pivotal moment for Putin to solidify gains.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would also see Trump’s return as an endorsement of his hardline approach. While current U.S. President Joe Biden has been criticized for failing to confront Israel’s actions in Gaza, a Trump presidency would likely embolden Netanyahu further. Under Trump, Netanyahu could feel unrestrained in pursuing policies to clear Gaza of Palestinians and integrate the territory into Israel, escalating an already volatile conflict.
Caterina Froio: The evolving role of universities
Caterina Froio is an associate professor of political science at Sciences Po, specializing in far-right politics, illiberalism, digital media, and political participation.
Rather than being detached from societal movements, universities are becoming powerful drivers of social and political change. By 2025, higher education institutions are expected to play a central role in shaping and responding to societal transformations amid intensifying political conflicts.
At present, student movements are forging international alliances to coordinate efforts against increasingly authoritarian governments. These movements tackle a range of issues, including climate action, reproductive rights, civil rights, and human rights. In particular, they highlight and document human rights abuses in conflict zones like Gaza, garnering attention from organizations such as the International Criminal Court.
Despite their growing influence, these movements face fierce opposition. Far-right groups have increasingly targeted universities, attempting to delegitimize academic research that challenges uncomfortable truths about history and current events. Fields such as climate science, gender studies, critical race theory, and technological ethics are especially vulnerable to these attacks.
The resilience of academics and students in these areas remains critical. Climate research, for example, plays a crucial role in exposing the political and corporate agendas that prioritize immediate economic gains over long-term planetary health. Beyond documenting environmental crises, scholars and students are crafting groundbreaking solutions for sustainable development and climate resilience.
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