Abstract
This research brings a new perspective to studies dealing with associations of migrants operating in exile. On the example of Sub-Saharan and Balkan associations, the research analyses their basic functions, forms, dynamics and efficiency in relation to the current economic context of Luxembourg, the Czech Republic and Belgium.
The associations of migrants generally represent a platform for meetings and information exchange but they are also "initial cultural identity" holders and centers for altruistic help towards both immigrants residing in the host society and families living in the country of origin. The efficiency of these migrant associations can both contribute to facilitate the socio-economic integration process of immigrants into the host society (exile) and reinforce the notion of migrant membership in the local community.
Whatever the country of settlement and the country of origin of migrants, the research confirms the key role played by the associations towards new comers (immigrants living in exile for a short time period) in learning them the moral and socio-economic codes of the host society. There are however some differences between Sub-Saharan and Balkan associations.
While the most of Sub-Saharan immigrants see the associations as problem-solving mediators, the Balkan immigrants consider the associations as a medium for their socio-cultural entertainment in a new land. Recommendations made by this research aim among others to help to avoid negative consequences that may be provoked by a long-term unemployment of the selected third country immigrants or a denial of their professional qualities (segregation of migrant communities in the city, emersion of intercultural conflicts, etc.).