From migration to integration: new residents in rural Latvia

Abstract

While rural development and its potential have become topical issues in Latvia over the past decade, there is a lack of research focused on in-depth study of newcomer integration in rural areas. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the migration and integration processes of newcomers in rural Latvia, as well as the factors that facilitate or hinder their integration into the rural environment and community. To achieve this goal, an empirical study was conducted based on interviews with rural newcomers and secondary data analysis. The results reveal that the integration of newcomers into rural Latvia is a complex process influenced by a multitude of factors. Rural integration encompasses several dimensions, including home, work, social spaces, events, and broader community involvement. Although many newcomers have reported feeling accepted by the local community, others have faced significant challenges in the integration process, often due to unwelcoming attitudes. Given the situation in rural Latvia, particularly in border regions where newcomers are key to revitalizing rural areas, it is essential to plan for state-level support.