ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a partial evaluation of the de-nationalization thesis, that is the assertion that migration and frequent transnational mobility come at the price of less engagement and identification with the local. The chapter compares the extent of civil and political participation by partners in national and binational couples. It reveals that partners in both national and binational couples are well-integrated in their societies, joining clubs and associations, volunteering for diverse causes, and participating in political life. Partners in binational couples are less engaged in local civil and political life than are partners in national ones, but only slightly. In fact, they are not a de-politicized group and they display more interest in European and world politics than do partners in national couples. Finally, the chapter strengthens the view that binational couples, just like national couples, are segmented along socio-economic lines, as captured by differences in education. Less educated partners in national and binational couples alike not only display less civil and political engagement but also express less interest in European and world politics.
