Rethinking migration networks on the move: Associative, professional and global encounters between Romanians in Spain

Abstract

AbstractThis paper explores the (re)interpretation of migration networks on the move following the European Union (EU) enlargement towards eastern Europe, which affected people's mobility in time–space. The paper poses two questions: are one or more migration networks engaged in this mobility? Is it possible to rethink migration networks in the context of mobility? Drawing on 60 in‐depth interviews with Romanians in Spain, my novel argument is that even while on they move people construct dynamic and multifaceted networks situated between encounter and difference that transcend their distinctive features and complement each other: ‘associative networks’ grouped around migrant associations; ‘professional networks’ articulated around the institutions that represent Romania in Spain; and ‘global networks of encounter’ that include highly mobile young people. The conclusions emphasize that the notion of migration networks on the move can be rethought by taking a transformative approach that overcomes differences and seeks interconnective synergy.