School of Social and Political Science

Description

The Centre of African Studies and the Citizenship and Migration Research Network are delighted to welcome you to come and hear about the following new book, followed by Q&A with the author:

This ethnographic exploration of irregular migration from Western and Central Africa in Morocco deconstructs dehumanising narratives of a “migration crisis” and a “sub-Saharan problem” in politics of migration. The book provides an original focus on how migrants understood and experienced their entrapped mobility. The emic notion of “the adventure” at the heart of this study sheds light on a transformative, epic quest to carve out a better life and future. The book traces how young men from Western and Central Africa sought to assert themselves as agents of their own destinies, despite uncertain, illegalising processes. In steering away from aesthetics of despair and fearmongering narratives, the book brings new insights into inter-disciplinary debates (e.g. illegality, uncertainty, immobility, violence, suffering, transit, etc.). Such focus is essential to draw out the complexity and existential depth of (irregular) migrants’ lives, journeys, and stories.

Keynote speaker: Dr Sébastien Bachelet

Sébastien Bachelet is a Senior Lecturer in Social Anthropology at the University of Manchester, whose publications include work on irregular migration and forced displacement, Maghreb studies (especially Morocco), visual anthropology, participatory and creative methods, uncertainty and political subjectivity, advocacy and solidarity, illegalisation and criminalisation of pro-migration activism, humanitarian protection and displacement rights, arts-based research and creative engagement.