Abstract
This webinar explores opportunities for political and societal participation of migrants by examining rural case studies from Carinthia (Austria) and selected rural regions in Italy. Despite common assumptions about rural political disengagement or populist leanings, rural areas are diverse political and social spaces shaped by socio-economic, cultural, and historical disparities. Through a comparative lens, the webinar analyzes structural conditions, local governance, party system influences, and local and regional actors that support or hinder political and civic engagement, as well as societal participation in rural contexts.
Giorgia Zogu explores how local factors shape immigrant political participation in rural Italy. Comparing nine diverse municipalities, it finds that individual traits (such as language and employment) and community dynamics (including local institutions and social networks) influence engagement. Marika Gruber analyzes forms of institutionalized and non-institutionalized societal participation in rural areas of Carinthia and identifies actors who can support inclusion and empowerment.
By juxtaposing the Austrian and Italian cases, the webinar aims to identify both common patterns and context-specific dynamics that contribute to understanding political behavior and societal engagement beyond urban-centric narratives. The discussion seeks to foster dialogue among scholars, practitioners, and local and regional stakeholders on strategies to enhance democratic and civic participation in rural Europe.