Performing a 'Returnee' in Benin City, Nigeria
1Tilburg, The Netherlands University of Tilburg.
Journal of International Migration and Integration
|August 1, 2022
Summary
Migrants returned to West Africa perform a "returnee" identity to gain community respect and political recognition. This performance, initially shaped by EU policies, evolves locally, masking ongoing migration aspirations.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Migration Studies
- Anthropology
Background:
- Thousands of irregular migrants have been returned to West Africa from Libyan detention centers.
- International NGOs support these return programs.
- The study focuses on returnees in Benin City, Nigeria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the establishment and evolution of the "returnee" identity among West African migrants.
- To analyze how the performance of this identity impacts social standing and political recognition.
- To understand the role of performativity in identity formation within the context of migration.
Main Methods:
- Extensive ethnographic fieldwork with various groups of returnees.
- Application of labelling, social identity, and performativity theories.
- Analysis of the "returnee" identity as a theatrical performance.
Main Results:
- Performing the "returnee" identity for external audiences (donors, researchers, media) enhances returnees' social respect.
- The "returnee play" initially scripted by EU border policies has adapted to local political contexts.
- Returnees maintain migration aspirations backstage while leveraging the "returnee" identity for local establishment and political recognition.
Conclusions:
- The "returnee" identity is a dynamic performance shaped by both external policies and local realities.
- Performativity plays a crucial role in navigating social hierarchies and achieving recognition for returned migrants.
- Returnees strategically utilize their identity to manage external perceptions and pursue internal goals.
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