Chapter 15
Gender and Social Class in the New Female Chinese Mobilities to Spain
In: Handbook of Chinese Migration to EuropeSearch for other papers by Amelia Sáiz López in
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Abstract
Chinese migration to Europe has created consolidated communities where women contribute both economically and in the family. This reflects a broad spectrum of Chinese female mobility, from economic migration to family reunification. The chapter begins with a brief overview of Chinese migration in Europe, followed by a literature review that examines this migration from a gender perspective, highlighting the fact that the new Chinese female mobilities mostly originate in the urban middle class. This study focuses on Chinese female migrants to Spain from the post-1980 generation, analysing their narratives through interviews and qualitative fieldwork based on an intersectional approach. The results suggest that, due to the Chinese stereotype that Spain is a less competitive destination than others, residing there allows these women to better reconcile their personal and professional lives. Furthermore, given the strong emphasis on conjugal relationships in 21st century China, these relationships serve as a preferred strategy for Chinese women seeking mobility to Europe.