The research examines migration between Gorizia in Italy and Nova Gorica in Slovenia,
focusing on cross-border residential mobility. Such mobility frequently occurs in EU border
regions and involves migration to neighboring countries, followed by daily commuting back
to the country of origin, where migrants maintain their jobs, social circles and other aspects
of everyday life. The research explains the causes of cross-border residential mobility in the
area under consideration and explores the habits of migrants, as well as the obstacles they
encounter before, during, and after migration, using quantitative and qualitative methods.
The main cause of migration is real estate prices, which encourage migration from Nova
Gorica to Gorizia. Most migrants retain their jobs and social circles in the Goriška region,
and free passage across the border allows them to shop for groceries and other products in
both countries. The reintroduction of border controls has not had a significant impact on
most migrants, though they do feel its effects during their daily commutes. The results reveal
a vibrant border life in the studied area, where residents can choose in which country they
live, work, shop, and socialize without major obstacles. However, crises such as the migrant
crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic remind us that this borderlessness is fragile and can change
overnight.
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