New associative cultures in a context of social change: An analysis of the evolution of the immigrant associative network in Galicia (2006–2016)

The main aim of this article is to conduct a longitudinal analysis of the immigrant associative network in Galicia over the last decade. Starting from a previous record of 2006, we updated the census of associations in 2016 in order to analyze their evolution. Specifically, we examine the continuity and the transformation in the associative scene, as well as the factors that contribute to the maintenance, dissolution and/or creation of certain associations within a context of change. The results point to a high volatility in the associative panorama, as well as a diversification of the profile, composition by country of origin and orientation of the associations. A variety of factors are behind this transformation. Firstly, the change in the migration cycle in Spain – a reduction in its immigration and an increase in re-emigration and return. Secondly, the loss of the primary status of immigration in the public agenda and the reduction in economic funding for integration. Finally, differences in the involvement culture in the country of origin are shown to be key for the creation of new associations. The methodology used combines quantitative (use of data from censuses and association registers in 2006 and 2016, a socio-demographic analysis of migration flows and stocks and a telephone questionnaire for associations) and qualitative techniques (semi-structured interviews of association members and key informants).