Belarusians, Russians and Ukrainians in Lithuania: from Immigrants to Future Citizens

The article develops the field of immigration research. With the help of qualitative research methods, the experiences of new immigrant groups -- Belarusians, Russians and Ukrainians -- are analysed. Experiences are disclosed through different aspects: individual and collective immigration experiences (strategies), participation in the labour market, formation of migration networks, attitudes towards acquisition of Lithuanian citizenship and permanent residence in Lithuania. The article seeks to look at the specific features of immigration of Belarusians, Russians and Ukrainians by disclosing how different migration determinants at the macro, mezo and micro levels are shaping migration motives, particularities of economic activities, trends of social networking, and attitudes towards acquisition of Lithuanian citizenship. A detailed analysis of the structure of immigration in Lithuania is carried out, and the newest statistical data on immigration trends is presented (statistical data is illustrated by the results of qualitative research concerning individual and collective migration motives). On the one hand, attitudes of immigrants and different types of social ties between immigrants and the majority society are analysed; on the other hand, the abovementioned results are illustrated by structural factors of immigration (immigration and migrant integration policies). Adapted from the source document.