Everyday Life in Refugee Camps

Abstract

This chapter addresses the issue of identity in a different way, placing it within the macro-politico-economic framework of nation-state interactions. It takes the position that camp life is imposed, restricted, and controlled and involves multiple dimensions and agencies. Through their experience of camp life and interactions with various agencies, the refugees are further reminded of their stateless status, foreign origin, and separate identity. The harsh experience reproduces their social memory of the past, and reinforces that they maintain a particular foreign identity. The analysis shows that personal views, power games, and hierarchy of organizational bureaucracy often prevail, even when there exists some sort of collective opposition from “less powerful” groups. The discussion illuminates the confusion of many practitioners in implementing appropriate policies in protected refugee situations.