New Books Network Cross-Border Intimacies: Affect and Emotions in Marriage Migration Between China and Taiwan
Jan 23, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Lara Momesso, an Honorary Research Fellow and expert in migration studies, dives into her research on marriage migration between China and Taiwan. She explores the emotional dynamics of cross-border relationships, emphasizing the importance of intimacy and belonging. Lara shares insights from her extensive ethnographic work, comparing the distinct access challenges in both regions. She also highlights the unique sociopolitical factors affecting these marriages and outlines her plans for future research on the second generation of migrants.
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Intimacy Shapes Marriage Migration
- Lara Momesso argues marriage migration must be studied as long-term relationships shaped by affect, not just economic strategy.
- Emotions and relational dynamics redefine belonging, integration, and family formation across the Taiwan Strait.
Affect And Emotion Interact
- Momesso rejects a strict split between affect (bodily atmospheres) and emotion (culturally named feelings).
- She shows affect and emotion constantly feed into and transform one another in migrant lives.
Fifteen Years Of Ethnography
- Momesso conducted longitudinal ethnographic work from 2008 onward using interviews, participant observation, and life histories.
- She interviewed about 150 people and partnered with three organizations to link personal stories to policy and public narratives.
