A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY OF IDENTITY NEGOTIATION AND SOCIAL BELONGING AMONG AFGHAN REFUGEES

Abstract

The political instability, inconsistent documentation processes, and fluctuating policies on documentation and return have created long-term displacement for Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Afghan refugees in Pakistan have been displaced for long periods of time, affected by conflict, political instability, and shifting policies. These situations bring to the fore the sociological issues of identity negotiation, legal insecurity, social recognition and belonging. This research explores the process of negotiating national, cultural and social identity among Afghan refugees in Pakistan and the effect of their status. The study employed a qualitative research design and data were collected through semi-structured interviews with a total of 22 male Afghan respondents aged 22 to 56 years in the District Mardan of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in Tehsil Takht Bhai and Jalala Afghan Camp. Due to ease of access and cultural sensitivity issues, a convenience sampling method was used. The interview data were analyzed in terms of the five interconnected themes of negotiating multiple identities, legal and future insecurity, discrimination and social exclusion, cultural continuity and social networks, and belonging and recognition. There were two major findings from this study. Firstly, it was the accounts of the participants themselves that highlighted the conflict between cultural and social bonds that had been established as a result of a long-term stay in Pakistan and the uncertainty surrounding the legal status and future residence of the participants. Secondly, experiences of social labelling and perceived social exclusion impacted the participants' recognition and sense of belonging, whereas family, common cultural practices and social networks were a key source of continuity and support. The study contributes to the sociological concept of identity negotiation and social belonging of Afghan refugees in Pakistan and highlights the necessity of clear documentation policies, protection from discrimination, cultural recognition, and meaningful opportunities for social participation.