How is "transnationalism" defined in migration studies?

Transnationalism in migration studies is best defined as maintaining personal connections across national boundaries. This concept highlights how migrants often establish and nurture relationships that bridge their home and host countries. Transnational migrants may send remittances back home, engage in political or social activities connected to their country of origin, or maintain family ties across borders. This interconnectedness contrasts with earlier views that often focused solely on assimilation, where the expectation was that migrants would fully adopt the culture of the host country, leaving behind their original identities and connections.

The other options reflect different aspects of migration but do not capture the essence of transnationalism. Returning to one's home country pertains more to concepts of return migration rather than ongoing connections. Assimilation emphasizes cultural integration into the host society, which contrasts with the notion of maintaining ties across nations. Lastly, the restriction of movement addresses legal and political factors influencing migration but does not pertain to the social and cultural aspects of ongoing connections that define transnationalism.