Abstract
This thesis explores neighbourhood attachment and place identity among Portuguese migrant communities in small town and semi-rural Northern Ireland, a region shaped by its post-conflict legacy. It investigates if Portuguese migrants have developed a sense of belonging and attachment to their new environment within a society still navigating the complexities of division and reconciliation. In engaging with place-based theories and emphasizing the importance of local context through migrant narratives, this study examines if Portuguese migrants develop attachment to specific neighbourhoods and form a sense of belonging in Northern Ireland. Drawing on qualitative interviews and ethnographic fieldwork, the research examines if factors such as local integration, cultural practices, family ties and the political landscape influence migrants' experiences of place identity. The findings reveal that Portuguese migrants in Northern Ireland navigate a layered sense of belonging, influenced by both their ethnic identity and the socio-political history of their new surroundings. While they generally experience high levels of neighbourhood attachment, there are challenges linked to limited intercultural interaction and local perceptions of migration. The study also highlights the role of shared spaces and community engagement in fostering connections between migrants and local residents, revealing the symbolic and actual importance of a Portuguese café, the ways in which culture and ethnicity are negotiated and managed in everyday lives and its role in fostering community relations. This research contributes to the understanding of migration to post-conflict societies, demonstrating how place identity and neighbourhood attachment is negotiated in contexts where historical divisions and contemporary migration intersect. It offers insights for policymakers on fostering inclusive communities and emphasizes the need for support systems that address the unique challenges faced by migrant populations in small town and semi-rural areas.Thesis is embargoed until 31 July 2030.
| Date of Award | Jul 2025 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Sponsors | Department for the Economy (DfE) Higher Education Research Capital Grant Funding & RGS-IBG |
| Supervisor | Gemma Catney (Supervisor) & Ian Shuttleworth (Supervisor) |
Keywords
- Migration
- place identity
- neighbourhood attachment
- post conflict
- rural