EWSI Special Feature (2013)

In order to answer these questions, this Special Feature gives a brief introduction to the developments that have taken place in this ambit over the past 20 years on a European level and highlights recent research dealing with different aspects of the political participation of migrants. Section 2 looks at the removal of legal barriers to participation by outlining the granting of political rights such as the right to vote or stand in elections and facilitating naturalisation. Of the migrants who are allowed to vote or stand for election, Section 3 shows how and in what proportions they go to the ballot box as well as the work being carried out by societal entities such as political parties to mainstream anti-discrimination and diversity. Consultative bodies and dialogue platforms offer another form of representation by transmitting the views of immigrant representatives to local or national authorities in an advisory capacity. Finally, Section 4 focuses on forms of political participation amongst the migrant youth.