Identity, Transnationalism, and Belonging: A Systematic Review of Literature on Migrants’ Descendants in Destination Areas

This review synthesizes empirical and theoretical scholarship on migrants’ descendants in destination areas. The paper examines the interconnected themes of identity, transnationalism, and belonging through the analytical lens of Transnationalism Theory. A two-stage search strategy was used: an initial systematic review across major academic databases followed by a supplementary search using Scopus and Web of Science. In total, twenty-eight peer-reviewed studies were analysed. Findings reveal that migrants’ descendants are often mischaracterized as “second-generation” or “1.5-generation” migrants. These terminologies mostly obscure their citizenship by birth and reinforces exclusion within the host societies. Identity and belonging emerge as fluid, multidimensional constructs expressed through circular mobility, affective ties to ancestral homelands. This review suggests for a more Global South destination research, to complement existing studies on migrants’ descendants in the Global North. It calls for the creation of citizenship frameworks that are inclusive and context sensitive, recognizing descendants as citizens with transnational identities.