The Dual Identity and Social Integration of International Immigrants in the Czech Republic: A Survey Research on the Second Generation of Chinese and Vietnamese Immigrants

Since the beginning of the democratization process at end of 1980s, Central and Eastern Europe has attracted international migration, including Asian immigrants, some of whom took advantage of inadequate immigration regulations at the beginning of 1990s. Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants are always among the largest ethnic groups in new areas for international migration. In the new immigration recipient societies, locals are obviously still not accustomed to social contacts with the new residents from abroad, especially those who are significantly culturally different. Many Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants also feel frustrated in their attempt at social integration. However, some interesting comparisons between Vietnamese and Chinese migrations can be explored, especially at the second generation's attitude toward integrating into the recipient society after a long period of residency. We raised a research hypothesis on the interaction between national (or cultural) identity/social networks and homeland and social integration, and used the empirical and comparative methodologies to explore our research problematic. As for the empirical approach, we conducted a questionnaire survey. Comparative methodology-wise, we compared the second generations of Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants on the grounds of their similar cultural, political and economic backgrounds.