SECOND-GENERATION MIGRANTS: IDENTIFICATION PROBLEMS

Abstract

The expression “second-generation” is particularly complex for several reasons. First of all, because of the link with the term “generation,” the use of the adjective “second,” and the meanings attributed to it by those so defined. Moreover, the conceptual category refers to different situations, each with different issues that are difficult to compare. The condition of the second generation or of the set of second-generation migrants appears ambiguous because it oscillates between forms of alienation and forms of belonging, between situations of marginality and situations of activism and protagonism. Therefore, the expression “second-generation” often appears reductive for a number of reasons, such as tracing those who fall under its classification to their family of origin and ethnic community, and emphasising continuity with the first generation.The aim will be to propose forms of identification that are closer to the interests of the subjects concerned and can refer to the two worlds perceived as different but of which the subjects still feel part: they are part of a group but do not renounce other affiliations.