On July 8, 2026, researchers Anna Triandafyllidou and Tuba Bircan highlight how AI and digital data are transforming our understanding of migration. Following the influx of millions fleeing Ukraine after Russia's invasion, organizations have leveraged mobile phone and online platform data to track movements and assess humanitarian needs.
Understanding Migration Through Digital Data
In recent years, governments and humanitarian organizations have utilized various digital tools to monitor migration patterns. For instance, mobile phone records, social media activity, and satellite imagery have become essential in tracking population displacement. This shift towards digital data is especially evident during crises such as the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, where population movements have been monitored in real time.
The advantages of these tools are significant. Digital traces can reveal immediate population movements, often months before official statistics are available. However, these digital metrics can overlook critical populations and fail to capture the nuanced lived experiences of migrants.
The Complexities of Measuring Migration
Canada's population grew by 744,324 people in 2024, with 97.3% identified as international migrants, according to Statistics Canada. Yet, the total number of migrants at any given time depends heavily on measurement methods. For example, the Canadian Census counts individuals based on their country of birth, while administrative records track visa statuses and surveys may capture personal migration experiences. Each data source serves as a proxy, providing a limited perspective on the complex reality of migration.
