Proximal Transnationalism
Proximal transnationalism
Proximal transnationalism is a concept developed by Marcos Estrada to describe forms of transnational engagement that occur within relatively short geographical distances, particularly in borderland contexts. His concept challenges traditional understandings of transnationalism, which often emphasise long-distance connections, such as those maintained between migrants and their homelands across continents. Instead, proximal transnationalism foregrounds how individuals and communities engage in cross-border practices within close spatial proximity, often facilitated by historical, cultural, economic, and political ties.
Estrada's framework draws on empirical research, particularly focusing on Brazilian returnees from Paraguay, a group that illustrates the fluidity of transnational identities and mobilities in border regions. In this context, individuals navigate dual national affiliations, engage in economic exchanges, and sustain social networks that traverse the Brazil-Paraguay border on a routine basis. This form of transnationalism differs from traditional long-distance migration patterns, as it involves frequent physical movement, hybrid identity formations, and the strategic use of legal, linguistic, and cultural capital in navigating multiple national spaces. His work has contributed to ongoing debates in transnational migration studies by emphasising the need for greater attention to spatial dynamics, borderland interactions, and short-distance transnational practices.
Picture of Ponta Porã-MS (Brazil) and Pedro Juan Caballero (Paraguay)
Changing Face of Global Mobility
Dr Estrada presented the concept of Proximal Transnationalism during the conference ‘Determinants of International Migration: A Theoretical and Empirical Assessment of Policy, Origin and Destination Effects’ conference held between 23 and 25th of September 2014, at Wolfson College, University of Oxford. In his presentation, he emphasised how geographical proximity to one's country of origin significantly influences transnational migrants' identities and daily practices. His research, based on ethnographic studies in the border regions of Brazil and Paraguay, highlighted the unique dynamics of cross-border interactions in these areas.
Upcoming Publication in Estudios Fronterizos
Dr. Estrada’s latest research on proximal transnationalism will be published in Estudios Fronterizos on 14th of February 2025. Estudios Fronterizos is a peer-reviewed, bilingual English-Spanish, open-access journal specialising in borders, international boundaries, and cross-border phenomena worldwide. According to the Scimago Journal Rank (SJR), Estudios Fronterizos holds prominent positions across multiple disciplines, including Geography, Planning, and Development, as well as Anthropology, both of which are ranked in the first quartile (Q1)
Once the article is published, in English and Spanish, this page will be updated with further information and access details.