The researchers systematically searched several major academic journal databases for worldwide English-language articles from 2007 to 2023. Over 40,000 initial records yielded a final selection of 126 papers that directly examine school-aged migrants’ civic opportunities. Apart from the global scholarly landscape, each paper was analysed to identify the dominant themes and specific methods and forms of engagement, and the underlying dynamics of initiative between youth agency and ally involvement.
When host nations empower migrant youth, they unlock civic capital that strengthens the entire society. Yet, migrant voices remain sidelined: only 20% of the reviewed papers document authentic youth perspectives, and youth-initiated action is exceptionally rare. With adult allies leading most activities, young migrants are positioned as passive subjects rather than capable agents. To foster reciprocal citizenship, educators and policymakers must move beyond speaking for these youth, equipping them with the tools and spaces to lead advocacy as equal contributors.
Link to the full article: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.3102/00346543251384312
Authors: Tatiana Khavenson, Miri Yemini, Garth Stahl
Research group’s website: https://yeminilab.technion.ac.il/
