Building International Solidarities in Rural Areas: Wellbeing-Oriented Reception Practices for Asylum Seekers in Galicia (Spain) Since the 1990s

This paper examines the often-overlooked dynamics of international protection and asylum seeker reception in rural Spain, with a focus on Galicia, a region in northwestern Spain known for its distinct migration history. Despite extensive research on migrant integration in urban areas, little attention has been given to the specific challenges and opportunities in rural contexts, where community-based efforts offer unique pathways to social inclusion. This study analyses the impact of reception mechanisms on the well-being of individuals and families in Galicia, spanning from the 1990s to the present. Using five case studies (Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Ukraine), the research highlights both structured and non-protocolized reception approaches tailored to the attributes of rural settings. Employing qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and media coverage analysis, the study identifies three critical factors influencing these reception processes: 1) an active civil society that fosters solidarity with displaced persons, especially at the local level; 2) innovative reception/housing solutions that accommodate the needs of incoming migrants; and 3) the involvement of public administrations at all levels—local, provincial, regional, and state. Media coverage across these cases is critically assessed, revealing its significant role in influencing public opinion’s sensitivity to asylum issues. By focusing on the interplay between civil society, local governance, and media portrayal, our contribution sheds light on the transformative potential of well-being-oriented reception practices in rural areas. It challenges dominant urban-centric narratives and contributes to broader discussions on the reimagining of rural regions as spaces for social solidarity.