I fattori determinanti della partecipazione degli immigrati nelle attivita civiche e politiche in Italia

Abstract

First generation immigrants' motivation for involvement on civic and political activities in Italy is studied with 14 interviews. Different nationalities' immigrants, participating in civic and political activities, describe their motives to get involved in civic activities and discouraging or facilitating factors. Most important participation motives concerned personal and professional growth; then, to combat prejudice and discrimination toward their ethnic/national group, and to promote immigrants' positive image. Most quoted obstacles were economical resources limited availability and difficulty in convincing other immigrants to participate. Most quoted facilitating factors were some socio-cultural-demographics (e.g., high level of education, language skills), and some personality characteristics (e.g., self-esteem, goal orientation and perseverance).