First, we conduct expert interviews with key figures structuring the mobility of people in different Swiss cities and regions (French-speaking Lemanic region, with a focus on Lausanne, and German-speaking Northwestern region, with a focus on Basel) in order to observe processes of definition, evaluation, and negotiation of skills related to immigration in Switzerland. Our findings are complemented by an analysis of policy documents, websites and statistical figures on the mobility of people towards Switzerland. By so doing, we aim to acquire a better understanding of the institutional context regulating the selection, admission, employment and support of immigrants arriving and staying in Switzerland. Second, we rely on participant observation and biographical interviews in order to provide a detailed analysis of some of the daily interactions through which identities are negotiated, and future prospects are imagined and shaped. This closer look at individual stories provides us with information on how institutional practices are experienced and challenged by individuals. Third, we analyse data representative for the recently arrived skilled population in Switzerland coming from the joint NCCR On the Move Migration-Mobility Survey. We are especially interested in questions concerning the relationship between migrants’ background and their interest and activity in civic engagement and transnational connections.
