Abstract

For many refugees, economic survival in refugee camps is extraordinarily difficult. Drawing on both qualitative and quantitative research , this volume challenges the reputation of a ‘self-reliant’ model given to Buduburam refugee camp in Ghana and sheds light on considerable economic inequality between refugee households.By following the same refugee households over several years, The Myth of Self-Reliancealso provides valuable insights into refugees’ experiences of repatriation to Liberia after protracted exile and their responses to the ending of refugee status for remaining refugees in Ghana.

SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2018 BBC THINKING ALLOWED ETHNOGRAPHY AWARD

“Excellent in every respect… The work fills a major gap in the refugee studies literature, as there has been no previous book-length account of this particular refugee population or the topic under review (how refugees cope in the absence of humanitarian assistance). Unlike some anthropological accounts of refugee situations, the study is a delight to read, bereft of unnecessary theory and maintains a consistent focus on the refugees themselves.” · Jeff Crisp, Refugee Studies Centre, University of Oxford

“This is a very clear and well written work that brings to life a complex set of conditions and relations within and beyond the refugee camp which are often blurred or over-simplified in ways that have severe consequences for refugees themselves… it provides much needed insights into the historical roots and complex contemporary manifestations of socio-economic differentiation affecting the lives and livelihoods of refugees both in the refugee camp and when faced with the dilemmas of repatriation.” · Amanda Hammar, University of Copenhagen

“This is an engaging and carefully crafted book, which is detailed and includes refugees own voices and perspectives throughout, alongside quantitative analysis. It contributes to key debates, and is carefully referenced throughout.” · Elena Fiddian-Qasmiyeh, University College London

Naohiko Omata is Senior Research Officer at the Refugee Studies Centre, University of Oxford.  Based on extensive research in  Sub-Saharan Africa, Naohiko has published widely on refugee livelihoods, rights and repatriation including a co-authored book Refugee Economies: Forced Displacement and Development (2016) and articles in the Journal of Refugee Studies, Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies and Community Development Journal. Previously, he worked as a practitioner and consultant for UNDP, UNHCR and international and local NGOs in various Sub-Saharan African countries.