This workshop invites theoretical contributions and empirical research that have grounded network analysis in the study of social relations but remain conscious of the shortcomings of structural-functionalism and poststructuralism. We invite studies that analyse and describe predominantly qualitative data on the core elements of migrant networks, on size, density, multiplexity, strength of ties, intensity, reachability, durability, frequency, content and know-how in establishment and mobilisation of migrant networks.

The main focus of the workshop will be on how people are connected and not on the instrumentalisation of networks. We would seek to explore how networks are being reproduced, socially constructed and altered by their members.

We would aim to contribute to future network analysis by overcoming its use as a descriptive tool of social situations and providing, instead, an in-depth analysis of its specificity as a useful method of collecting data in migration studies.

Abstracts (250-500 words) will be welcomed by 1 April 2003. The languages of the workshop will be English and French and abstracts and papers could be submitted in either language. Papers (4000-8000 words) will be circulated in advance and have to be submitted before 10 May 2003. Each participant will be expected to review one other paper by 20 May 2003.

Young researchers are particularly welcome. The conference debates are also open to practitioners from governmental and non-governmental institutions working with migrants.