The Refugee System - A Sociological Approach

This book explores the decision-making process of households in danger when faced with violence and persecution, examining the conditions in countries of origin, transit, and reception that shape their options. It provides a sociological approach to understanding the refugee system, showing how changes in one part of the system reverberate elsewhere and how past policies, laws, population movements, and regional responses shape states' responses in the present.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

Some individuals who face violence and persecution opt to flee their homes, while others choose to remain. The decision to leave or stay is a complex one that involves several factors, including the safety of the individual and their family, the availability of resources and support, and the conditions in countries of origin, transit, and reception.

In countries of origin, the decision to flee may be driven by factors such as political instability, armed conflict, or persecution. Individuals may face threats to their lives, livelihoods, or freedom, and may have no other option but to leave their homes in search of safety. In transit, refugees may face a range of challenges, including exposure to violence, exploitation, and human rights abuses. They may be forced to travel long distances, often on foot or by boat, and may face limited access to food, water, and medical care. In reception countries, refugees may face discrimination, social exclusion, and limited access to employment, housing, and education. They may also face legal barriers to their integration into society, such as detention or deportation.

The conditions in countries of origin, transit, and reception that shape people's options are diverse and complex. In countries of origin, factors such as economic inequality, political instability, and social marginalization may contribute to the decision to flee. In transit, the availability of safe passage, the presence of legal and humanitarian assistance, and the conditions of detention and exploitation may influence individuals' decisions to remain or move on. In reception countries, factors such as the availability of resources, the political climate, and the attitudes of the local population may shape individuals' decisions to stay or return to their country of origin.

The refugee system is a global system that shapes refugee movements. Changes in one part of the system reverberate elsewhere. Feedback mechanisms change processes across time and place. Earlier migrations shape later movements. Immobility on one path redirects migration along others. Past policies, laws, population movements, and regional responses all contribute to shape states' responses in the present. As Arar and FitzGerald illustrate, all these processes are forged by deep inequalities of economic, political, military, and ideological power.

Presenting a sharp analysis of refugee structures worldwide, this book offers invaluable insights for students and scholars of international migration and refugee studies across the social sciences, as well as policy makers and those involved in refugee and asylum work.

In conclusion, the decision to flee or stay is a complex one that is influenced by a range of factors, including the safety of the individual and their family, the availability of resources and support, and the conditions in countries of origin, transit, and reception. The refugee system is a global system that shapes refugee movements, and changes in one part of the system reverberate elsewhere. Understanding the conditions that shape people's options and the processes that drive refugee movements is essential for developing effective policies and interventions to address the global refugee crisis.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509542796