"Failed" Migratory Adventures?: Malian Men Facing Conditions Post Deportation in Southern Mali

The book "Deported: The Failed Migration of Malian Men" by Susanne U. Schultz examines the effects of intra-African and European deportation regimes on the everyday lives of forcibly returned Malian men, shedding light on understudied aspects of these policies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

The impact of the intra-African and European deportation regimes, which have emerged as a result of the European Union's externalization of its migration and development policy by transferring it to countries in sub-Saharan Africa, remains a subject that requires significant scholarly attention. Particularly, the effects of these regimes on the daily lives of individuals who have been forcibly returned need to be thoroughly explored. In her book, "Deported: Failed Migration and Social Situations among Malian Men," Susanne U. Schultz conducts extensive field research to examine the purported failure of migration among Malian men, the social contexts in which they find themselves after deportation, and the broader societal implications of their failure. This groundbreaking ethnographic study contributes valuable empirical insights into critical areas of migration research, policy, and practice, particularly in the context of a highly contentious debate.

Schultz's research reveals that the deportation regimes have had far-reaching consequences for the lives of the Malian men she studies. These men, who had often traveled to Europe in search of better economic opportunities, faced numerous challenges upon their return. They faced discrimination, social exclusion, and limited access to basic resources, such as housing, employment, and healthcare. Many of them were unable to reintegrate into their communities and were forced to live in marginalized areas, where they faced further hardship and isolation.

The book also sheds light on the social situations in which these men find themselves after deportation. Schultz explores the complex web of relationships and networks that these men have built in Europe, as well as the challenges they face in reestablishing these connections upon their return. She highlights the role of social capital, cultural norms, and gender dynamics in shaping their social experiences and their ability to navigate the complexities of their new environments.

Furthermore, Schultz's book raises important questions about the implications of these men's failure for their social environment and broader society. She argues that the deportation regimes not only impact the individual lives of the deportees but also have broader societal consequences. These consequences include the strain on social services, the loss of human capital, and the potential for social unrest and instability. Schultz calls for a more comprehensive and empathetic approach to migration policy that takes into account the diverse experiences and needs of migrants, including those who are forcibly returned.

In conclusion, "Deported: Failed Migration and Social Situations among Malian Men" is a groundbreaking ethnographic study that provides valuable insights into the effects of intra-African and European deportation regimes on the daily lives of individuals who have been forcibly returned. Through extensive field research and a nuanced analysis of social situations, Schultz sheds light on the complex web of factors that contribute to migration failure and the broader societal implications of these failures. This book is a must-read for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners interested in understanding the complexities of migration and its impact on individuals and communities.

Weight: 422g
Dimension: 148 x 224 x 40 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837660098