Cross-line Of East And West: Second Generation Pakistani Youth In Norway

Abstract

Pakistani community constitutes the largest group of immigrant population in Norway and its second and third generation youth has a predominated majority in the Pakistani immigrant population in Norway. This generation, which has grown out of the Norway-born-and-bread single parent and then both parents, is different in every aspect from that of their parents or first generation: they are more exposed to and aware of the Norwegian culture. And they are better equipped to safeguard and promote their interests. At the same time, they are also familiar with their parents’ culture and values. Gender issues are often in focus of the media coverage dedicated to the immigrant community in the context of traditional gender role in Pakistani society. This paper focuses on the notion of second generation, identity work and gender. Gender is the cross-cutting theme throughout this paper. This paper deals with theoretical discussion on second generation youth in Norway. It also co-relates the findings of a qualitative study by using the theoretical models and presents some recommendations based on this study.