Transnationalism and Interculturalism as Patterns of Integration in a Global Perspective

Abstract

Transnationalism and interculturalism are two notions that describe processes and practices that are related to migrants’ integration in urban settings and that reflect on the issue of cultural diversity brought about by immigration beyond local and national scenarios. In this sense, these notions situate international migration flows within global dynamics, in which the cultural and political experiences of migrants acquire new interpretations, demanding the countries involved to develop alternative political positions. The concept of transnationalism, in the context of globalization, describes new practices and social spaces that emerge from the contemporary realities of immigration. Although this concept does not attempt to examine multicultural societies, it represents an important contribution to the study of practices of immigrant communities and their patterns of participation and integration in the host country. Another debate on the political management of diversity has developed around the concept of interculturalism and its ability to generate a more adapted approach to the reality of relations and conflicts between cultures and communities in globalized societies. Also, as a political response from the local level, intercultural dialogue has become a resource to solve conflicts and reach greater social equality.