Sikhs in Continental Europe: From Norway to Greece and Russia to Portugal

This book is the third in the trilogy of books looking Sikh migration to non-English speaking countries following Sikhs in Latin America and Sikhs in Asia Pacific.

Please note: Print edition not for sale in South Asia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 380 pages
Publication date: 26 November 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Some could enter Europe through legal channels,while others found alternative routes as undocumented migrants. Sikhs found employment mostly as unskilled labour but now they have been able to create niche professions such as dairying in Italy and restaurants/bars in Finland. There is now a large second generation who is fully qualified to enter other professions. The author describes how Sikhs have kept up their traditions through ‘Nagar Kirtans,Turban,Youth Summer camps,and ‘sewa. There are almost 140 gurdwaras in Europe with a meagre population of less than a quarter million.

Sikh migration to non-English-speaking countries has been a significant phenomenon, with the third book in the trilogy focusing on the comparatively lesser-known destinations. The first two books, Sikhs in Latin America and Sikhs in Asia Pacific, explored the migration patterns of Sikhs to countries like the United States and the British Commonwealth. However, with restrictions on entering the United Kingdom in the 1970s, Sikhs were compelled to look for alternative migration routes, including Continental Europe.

The migration picked up pace in the 1970s, and the 1980s and 1990s saw an increase in asylum seekers, further adding to the migration numbers. Some Sikhs were able to enter Europe through legal channels, while others resorted to undocumented migration. Sikhs found employment primarily in unskilled labor, but they have since carved out niche professions such as dairy farming in Italy and restaurant/bar management in Finland.

There is now a substantial second generation of Sikhs who are well-qualified to pursue other professions. The author of the book highlights how Sikhs have maintained their traditions through various means, including Nagar Kirtans, the wearing of the Turban, Youth Summer camps, and sewa (voluntary service).

In Europe, there are approximately 140 gurdwaras, with a population of less than a quarter million. The book provides valuable insights into the experiences of Sikhs in these non-English-speaking countries and their contributions to their respective communities. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities faced by Sikhs as they navigate their way in a new cultural and social environment.

Overall, this trilogy of books offers a comprehensive examination of Sikh migration to non-English-speaking countries, providing a deeper understanding of this important aspect of Sikh history and culture.

Weight: 582g
Dimension: 145 x 222 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367675813