Social Networks and Transnational Migration Practices

The leading question of this chapter is how networking models develop during the process of migration—starting from organizing the initial travel, going through the challenges of finding a job and ending with transnational practices. In this process, three different types of networking are addressed: one defined by relatives, one based on colleagues and acquaintances and one characterized by the employers’ support, typical for the more settled type of migrants. The chapter addresses the interaction of migrants with the home country, showing that it is increasingly dominated by modern IT communication. Regarding interactions with the host community, the analysis indicates a pattern orientated towards the Bulgarian Diaspora though more educated migrants tend to communicate in wider and culturally diverse networks. Mobility apart, the research shows that remittances along with sending of goods emerge as social transfers and represent important transnational practices. Finally, the chapter highlights a number of interesting findings, revealing migration as a driver of shifts in national and ethnic identity. The data speaks about identity shifts leading to a self-identification with other more positively perceived ethnic, national and supra national groups