Children of the Crisis: Ethnographic Perspectives on Unaccompanied Refugee Youth In and en Route to Europe

Thousands of young people on the run from war and persecution, or escaping poverty and chronic instability, make their way to Europe without their parents. This has led to a major shift in perception in European countries, initiating policies and infrastructures targeted specifically at unaccompanied child refugees. This book investigates the emergence of the unaccompanied child refugee as a 'crisis figure' and how the sense of exceptionality attached to this figure translates into ambiguous and contradictory social practices that have far-reaching effects on the lives of refugee youth. By focusing on young peoples own experiences and perspectives, it establishes a deeper understanding of the ways unaccompanied asylum seekers live and make sense of shifting social terrains.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 162 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Every year, thousands of young individuals, driven by war, persecution, poverty, or chronic instability, embark on perilous journeys to Europe, leaving their parents behind. These courageous individuals endure long and often dangerous travels, sometimes becoming separated from their families or setting out on their own. In recent years, the number of unaccompanied minors arriving in Europe has surged, prompting a significant shift in perception across European countries. This has resulted in the implementation of comprehensive policies and infrastructures specifically tailored to address the needs of unaccompanied child refugees.

This book delves into the emergence of the unaccompanied child refugee as a "crisis figure." It explores how the exceptional status assigned to this group translates into ambiguous and sometimes conflicting social practices that profoundly impact the lives of refugee youth. By combining ethnographic research on unaccompanied minors in key arrival and transit countries in or into Europe, the book highlights the diverse interpretations, experiences, and struggles surrounding childhood, deservingness, and vulnerability. By centering the narrative on the perspectives of young individuals, the book offers a deeper understanding of the realities faced by unaccompanied asylum seekers as they navigate shifting social landscapes.

The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of the Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, further contributing to the understanding of this critical issue.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 174 x 247 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032072548