POLITICAL FACTORS AND THEIR EFFECT ON THE MOBILITY OF INTERNATIONAL PHD STUDENTS

Abstract

The political factors affecting the mobility of international PhD students from Turkey studying in the UK are explored in this article. The study applies the structuration theory and capability approach to investigate how political factors enhance or inhibit students' capabilities to become mobile. The research employs a qualitative approach, conducting semi-structured interviews with 40 social science and science PhD students from 17 universities in the UK. The results suggest that an appealing political environment is necessary to retain highly educated individuals, particularly for those coming from countries experiencing political tension and conflict. The study concludes that political factors play a significant role in shaping mobility decisions at different levels, affecting the interdependence and interrelatedness of macro and micro factors. Despite structural constraints, international students continue to practice agency, negotiating constraining factors, such as visa restrictions and funding, so as not to return home against their wishes