This article examines how familial ties and kinship networks shape the class conditions of migrants in their host country. Using data from 61 semi-structured interviews with Filipino migrant nurses in Ireland, we examine the connection between familial social networks and their socioeconomic conditions in the host society. We argue that kinship ties and their local contexts continue to impinge on migrants' class position and class conditions in their destination country. The paper highlights the interconnections between complex social relations, social spaces, and class systems in shaping migrant social mobility in the destination country. It illustrates how class backgrounds in the home country are reproduced through their kinship ties. It also argues that while social ties are usually predicated on positive emotional bonds, some produce negative consequences that impede or delay the social mobility of migrants. Conversely, some social ties help migrants achieve their middle-class aspirations ahead of others.

ABSTRACT Globalisation and Europeanisation are complementary and partly overlapping processes that identify the increasingly supranational context in which political and educational systems are operating. This article explores how Turkish youth in two German and English secondary schools relate to the European knowledge economy, and how their political identities are shaped by school dynamics (ethos, curriculum and peer cultures) and social class positioning. 1 Drawing upon mainly qualitative data, the paper indicates that when the concept of Europe is allied to multiculturalism, there is the possibility of including minority ethnic groups like the Turkish Muslims and giving them the opportunity of relating to the European knowledge economy. If, however, Europe is understood as a white Christian concept, then Turkish teenagers will struggle to relate positively to Europe as a political identity. The article not only gives voice to young Turkish Muslims in Europe but also assesses the potential for Europe to be a common ground for all youth to negotiate their identities.