Ethnic Organisations and Social Movement Theory: The Political Opportunity Structure for Ethnic Mobilisation in Flanders

Abstract

In recent years, the number of ethnic organisations in Belgium has risen to more than 2,000. The question to be dealt with in this article is whether these associations can be said to constitute an ethnic social movement. Social movement theory assumes that the chances for the development of any movement are partly dependent upon the opportunities provided by the political system. It is generally taken for granted that the traditional culture of concertation and dialogue in Belgium is an ideal setting for the development of new social movements. However, ethnic associations are sharply divided along ethnic and political cleavages, while the electoral impact of ethnic minorities inevitably will remain limited. These two elements inhibit the formation of a successful and politically effective ethnic movement in the country. The article closes with some suggestions on how the study of ethnic mobilisation could be included in a broader social movement study.