Language and trust: Struggles for recognition of migrant people in the political realm

This article explores the influence of language on the political participation of people who have migrated. It examines the ways in which language-related features shape the recognition and trust-building processes for migrant individuals during their engagement with the public in local-level political elections in Ireland. Adopting a relational approach to the concepts of political recognition and trust, the article examines data from interviews with councillors and candidates of migrant background who either speak English as an additional language or speak a variety other than Irish English. The study reveals a nuanced perspective of the impact of language on political participation, with varying viewpoints among participants. These differences can be partly attributed to the different forms of capital associated with candidates. • Explores how language influences the political participation of migrant people. • Develops a relational approach to the concepts of political recognition and trust. • Argues that language shapes the formation of trust during political interactions.