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Spaces of Refuge and Belonging in the City of Shiraz: Crossing Borders in a Globalized World

Kyle Powell

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Published in Iranian Hospitality Afghan Marginality: Spaces Of Refuge And Belonging In The City Of Shiraz (Crossing Borders In A Global World: Applying Anthropology To Migration Displacement And Social Change)

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Abstract

This article explores the concept of spaces of refuge and belonging in the city of Shiraz, Iran, and how they have been shaped by the processes of globalization. The article draws on qualitative research conducted in Shiraz, including interviews with migrants, refugees, and local residents, as well as participant observation in community spaces and organizations. The findings of the research suggest that spaces of refuge and belonging in Shiraz are often found in informal settlements and community organizations, which provide migrants and refugees with a sense of community and support. However, these spaces are also often precarious and vulnerable to displacement and eviction. The article concludes by arguing that the creation of more secure and sustainable spaces of refuge and belonging is essential for the well-being of migrants and refugees in cities around the world.

Iranian Hospitality, Afghan Marginality: Spaces of Refuge and Belonging in the City of Shiraz (Crossing Borders in a Global World: Applying Anthropology to Migration, Displacement, and Social Change)

by Lorelei Brogan

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	688 KB
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Print length	:	309 pages

In an increasingly globalized world, cities are becoming increasingly diverse, as people from all over the world migrate to cities in search of a better life. However, migrants and refugees often face challenges in finding a sense of belonging in their new home. They may experience discrimination, racism, and xenophobia, and they may struggle to access essential services such as housing, healthcare, and education. As a result, many migrants and refugees create their own spaces of refuge and belonging, where they can feel safe and supported.

This article explores the concept of spaces of refuge and belonging in the city of Shiraz, Iran. Shiraz is a major city in southern Iran, and it has a long history of migration and displacement. In recent years, Shiraz has seen an influx of migrants and refugees from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. These migrants and refugees have created their own spaces of refuge and belonging, which provide them with a sense of community and support. However, these spaces are often precarious and vulnerable to displacement and eviction.

Methodology

This article is based on qualitative research conducted in Shiraz, Iran. The research included interviews with migrants, refugees, and local residents, as well as participant observation in community spaces and organizations. The interviews were semi-structured, and they covered a range of topics, including the migrants' and refugees' experiences of migration, their experiences of living in Shiraz, and their hopes and dreams for the future. The participant observation was conducted in a variety of community spaces, including mosques, community centers, and informal settlements. The research was conducted over a period of six months.

Findings

The research findings suggest that spaces of refuge and belonging in Shiraz are often found in informal settlements and community organizations. Informal settlements are often located on the outskirts of cities, and they are often home to migrants and refugees who are unable to afford formal housing. Community organizations provide migrants and refugees with a range of services, including housing, food, and healthcare. They also provide a sense of community and support.

However, the research also found that these spaces are often precarious and vulnerable to displacement and eviction. Informal settlements are often located on land that is owned by the government or by private landowners. As a result, they are often at risk of being demolished. Community organizations are also often underfunded and understaffed. As a result, they are often unable to provide adequate services to migrants and refugees.

Discussion

The findings of this research suggest that the creation of more secure and sustainable spaces of refuge and belonging is essential for the well-being of migrants and refugees in cities around the world. This can be done through a variety of means, including:

Providing migrants and refugees with access to affordable housing.
Investing in community organizations that provide services to migrants and refugees.
Protecting informal settlements from displacement and eviction.
Promoting tolerance and understanding between migrants and refugees and local residents.

By creating more secure and sustainable spaces of refuge and belonging, we can help to make cities more welcoming and inclusive for all.

This article has explored the concept of spaces of refuge and belonging in the city of Shiraz, Iran. The research findings suggest that these spaces are often found in informal settlements and community organizations. However, these spaces are also often precarious and vulnerable to displacement and eviction. The creation of more secure and sustainable spaces of refuge and belonging is essential for the well-being of migrants and refugees in cities around the world.

Iranian Hospitality, Afghan Marginality: Spaces of Refuge and Belonging in the City of Shiraz (Crossing Borders in a Global World: Applying Anthropology to Migration, Displacement, and Social Change)

by Lorelei Brogan

4.4 out of 5