MIGRANT INTEGRATION AND ELECTORAL PARTICIPATION: LOCAL ELECTION 2019 IN DUBLIN, IRELAND

This article provides insight into political participation among migrant communities in Dublin, Ireland at the 2019 Local Elections. Evaluations of migrant integration in the European Union, often based on the categories included in the Zaragoza Indicators (European Commission, 2010), or in subsequent studies that expand on these select indicators, place a focus on political life as an important consideration to overall integration and active citizenship. This article examines voter turnout levels among migrant voters in Dublin, in order to evaluate whether trends of low voter participation are linked to a lack of political integration, which may have negative implications for migrant communities; communities that may have distinct legislative needs. The application of correlation testing using R statistics packages and spatial analysis using ArcGIS software facilitates investigation of trends. Interviews with political representatives highlight the scope for improved information, education, and integration among migrant communities at a time a newly established Electoral Commission in the Republic of Ireland has the potential to address such concerns.