Comparing engagement by migrants in domestic and in country-of-origin political activities across European cities

Abstract

This article aims to investigate levels of migrants and second generations’ engagement in country-of-origin political activities and in domestic political activities. Using data from a population survey of individuals of migrant origin in ten European cities undertaken in 2004–2010, we examine both individual and contextual characteristics shaping engagement in one and in the other scope of action. Findings show that migrants and second generations tend to engage in an equal number of domestic and country-of-origin political activities. Engagement in country-of-origin political activities only is fully compatible with a trajectory of political integration in the countries of settlement, opposing the view that migrants may contribute to build or live in a “separate” society. Finally, the results show that contextual opportunities affect chances to engage in one or in the other scope of action. In particular, easy access to residence permits favours engagement in domestic political activities and discourages engagement in country-of-origin political activities. This suggests that migrants and second generations’ engagement in country-of-origin political activities may be a reaction to the limited opportunities of integration offered by the residence countries.