Abstract
This paper contributes to the debate on the role of the associations among immigrants in their origin and destination countries, working as a bridge between them. The growing number and the potential of these associations have highlighted their contribution to the development and the renewal of the civil societies of the origin and destination countries. However, this process still has limitations and dynamics that may conflict with the basic role of these associations. The interaction between the origin and destination countries, as well as the access to governmental programs and funds, has created a scenario in which these associations have undergone organizational and power-related changes, which have been an object of criticism.
Keywords
associations; immigrants; State; development; integration