‘Bla Bla Bla Policies’ and the ‘Participation Paradox’: A Critical Approach to Participation Policies and the Engagement of Third-Country Nationals in Catalonia

This article aims to critically examine the civic and political participation of young third-country nationals residing in Catalonia, Spain. From a perspective that acknowledges the interplay between factors both in countries of nationality and residence, this paper examines the structural and administrative barriers that hinder the active involvement of non-national youth in participation initiatives. Drawing from an in-depth qualitative analysis of the diverse experiences and views of both young non-nationals and the professionals involved in the implementation of participation policies, the article develops around two concepts: ‘Bla Bla Bla Policies’ and the ‘Participation Paradox’. Both notions are used to describe the disconnect and contradictions between policy discourses on participation and participation policies, their implementation and youth experiences of these. The paper suggests that when considering the involvement of third country nationals, it is crucial to acknowledge the conflicting dynamics between the structural limitations and the efforts made by institutions to promote participation among non-nationals.